Astronaut Discloses Depression After Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health 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 brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

She described the news reports and online discourse 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.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack 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 deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the experience, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.