Space Traveler Reveals Depression After Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

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

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and environmental 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 “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the edge of space.

The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.