Astronaut Discloses Depression After Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after 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 wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her heritage – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since reaching space, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had resulted from the flight, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also featured leaders in different industries.

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