Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress After Wave of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring 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 short-duration mission in April, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

She described the press attention and digital reaction 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.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.

She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the flight, such as spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in different industries.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.