Astronaut Reveals Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

She portrayed 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 confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the mission, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.

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