Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

She described 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 revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of space.

The group of women also included leaders in different industries.

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