Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.

The diverse crew also included leaders in various fields.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.