Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “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 women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and years of training to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the flight, such as spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.