Astronaut Reveals Depression Following Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

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

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

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

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

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

The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the flight, such as spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.