Astronaut Shares Emotional Distress After Deluge of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

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

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated 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,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

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

“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

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.

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

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the mission, including increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.