Astronaut Shares Depression Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.