Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“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 conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the mission, including increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also included leaders in various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.