Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism 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 in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “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 female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

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

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The group of women also comprised experts in different industries.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.