Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction 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 wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of outer space.

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

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