Astronaut Reveals Depression Following ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included well-known figures.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy 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 revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

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

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, including spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from different industries.

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