Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Months following reaching space, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.