Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about 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 – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also carried well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

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

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also included leaders in various fields.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.