🔗 Share this article Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight The scientist and activist, a women's health researcher, was aboard the New Shepard NS-31 rocket in April 2025. A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space. Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also carried well-known figures. The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint. Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse. “I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight. She described 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 wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.” Overshadowed by Sexism Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks. She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence. Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle. Finding Solid Ground In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed. She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities. About the Mission The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the edge of space. The diverse crew also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines. The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
The scientist and activist, a women's health researcher, was aboard the New Shepard NS-31 rocket in April 2025. A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space. Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also carried well-known figures. The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint. Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse. “I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight. She described 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 wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.” Overshadowed by Sexism Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks. She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence. Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle. Finding Solid Ground In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed. She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities. About the Mission The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the edge of space. The diverse crew also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines. The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.