Space Traveler Discloses Depression After ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse 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 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included well-known figures.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also featured leaders in different industries.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.