Space Traveler Reveals Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.

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

“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.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the experience, including increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also featured experts in different industries.

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