Astronaut Discloses Depression Following Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

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

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also comprised leaders in different industries.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.