Astronaut Shares Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also comprised leaders in various fields.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.