Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

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

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after 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 revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research 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 deluge of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured experts in different industries.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.