Astronaut Shares Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

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

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction 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.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the mission, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from various fields.

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