Space Traveler Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

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

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

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

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured leaders in different industries.

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