Astronaut Discloses Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding 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 carried high-profile passengers.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

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

She portrayed 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 revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.

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