Astronaut Discloses Depression After Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included high-profile passengers.
The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.
She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The diverse crew also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.
