🔗 Share this article Astronaut Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight Amanda Nguyen, a bioastronautics research scientist, was onboard the automated spacecraft in Spring 2025. A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space. The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers. The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint. Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”. “I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing. She characterized the press attention and digital reaction 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 confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.” Overshadowed by Sexism The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks. She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault. Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice. A Path to Recovery Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said. She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities. The Historic Journey The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of outer space. The diverse crew also featured leaders in various fields. The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.
Amanda Nguyen, a bioastronautics research scientist, was onboard the automated spacecraft in Spring 2025. A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space. The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers. The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint. Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”. “I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing. She characterized the press attention and digital reaction 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 confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.” Overshadowed by Sexism The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks. She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault. Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice. A Path to Recovery Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said. She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities. The Historic Journey The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of outer space. The diverse crew also featured leaders in various fields. The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.