Astronaut Discloses Depression After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Months following achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the experience, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.