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

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.

She described the news reports and online discourse 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 wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.

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

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the mission, including increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also included leaders in various fields.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.