Astronaut Discloses Depression After Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

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

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

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also featured experts in different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.