Astronaut Reveals Depression In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed 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 scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

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

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.

She described the press attention and digital reaction 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.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Months following achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She concluded that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured experts in different industries.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.