Space Traveler Shares Depression After Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake 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 earlier this year, which also carried well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

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

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the mission, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in various fields.

The company behind the flight is a private space firm established by a well-known tech mogul.