Astronaut Shares Depression After Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

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

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“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.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the mission, including elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also included leaders in various fields.

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