Space Traveler Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since reaching space, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also included experts in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.