Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried well-known figures.

The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the flight, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that crossed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from different industries.

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