Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

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

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She portrayed 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. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

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

A Path to Recovery

Months following reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the flight, including elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The group of women also featured experts in various fields.

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