Space Traveler Reveals Depression After ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value 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 landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a online statement, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction 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 wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was drowned out under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, such as increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of space.

The group of women also featured experts in multiple disciplines.

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