Space Traveler Discloses Depression After Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health 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 short-duration mission in April, which also included high-profile passengers.

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

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 said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy 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 revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.