Astronaut Shares Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

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

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

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, 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,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

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

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also comprised experts in different industries.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.