Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” 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 the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

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

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

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that despite the negativity, considerable good had come out of the mission, such as spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.