🔗 Share this article Astronaut Shares Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey Amanda Nguyen, a women's health researcher, was aboard the automated spacecraft in Spring 2025. A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space. Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured high-profile passengers. The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint. Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse. “I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing. She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping. “I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “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 female health science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol. She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence. Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability. The Fog Begins to Lift Months following achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed. She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the mission, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities. Flight Details The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of space. The team of pioneers also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields. The company behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.
Amanda Nguyen, a women's health researcher, was aboard the automated spacecraft in Spring 2025. A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space. Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured high-profile passengers. The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint. Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse. “I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing. She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping. “I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “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 female health science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol. She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence. Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability. The Fog Begins to Lift Months following achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed. She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the mission, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities. Flight Details The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of space. The team of pioneers also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields. The company behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.