Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle After ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also carried well-known figures.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as 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,” she recounted in a public message, describing a supportive conversation 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”.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of space.
The group of women also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.