Astronaut Reveals Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

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

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

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

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since reaching space, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the mission, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also featured leaders in various fields.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.