Astronaut Discloses Depression Following Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding 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 researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also featured experts in various fields.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.