Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.

She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the mission, such as increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The group of women also featured leaders in various fields.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.