Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress After Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

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

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

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