Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also carried well-known figures.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.

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