Astronaut Shares Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, such as spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also included leaders in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.