Astronaut Reveals Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “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 mission, said every professional achievement – from her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured leaders in different industries.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.