Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

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

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had come out of the mission, such as spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in various fields.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.