Space Traveler Reveals Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.
She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.
She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
