Space Traveler Shares Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

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

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also included experts in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm established by a well-known tech mogul.