Space Traveler Shares Depression Following Deluge of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, such as spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also featured experts in different industries.

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