Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle After ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the journey.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also featured leaders in various fields.

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