Crew Member Shares Depression Following Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” 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 short-duration mission in the spring, which also carried well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the journey.

She described 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 confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the experience, such as spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that crossed the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.