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

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included well-known figures.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the mission, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured experts in various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.