Astronaut Shares Depression Following Wave of Backlash Following Journey

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 wake of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.