Space Traveler Reveals Depression After Deluge of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

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

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also featured leaders in various fields.

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