Astronaut Reveals Depression Following Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also carried well-known figures.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured experts in different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.