Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

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

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the flight, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The self-operating spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.