Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

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

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following reaching space, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, including elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.