Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

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 years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the experience, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of space.

The group of women also featured experts in different industries.

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