Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also included well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

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

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

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 followers whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, including elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The self-operating spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.