Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The self-operating spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from various fields.

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