Astronaut Shares Depression In the Wake of Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of space.

The group of women also comprised leaders in various fields.

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