Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“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 aftermath of the flight.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction 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 revealed. “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 female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of misogyny.

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

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

A Path to Recovery

In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had emerged from the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

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

The team of pioneers also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.