Astronaut Shares Depression Following Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed 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 scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured well-known figures.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

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

The team of pioneers also included experts in multiple disciplines.

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