Astronaut Shares Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey

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

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

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

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” 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 dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the mission, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.