Astronaut Shares Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

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

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.

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. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured leaders in various fields.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.