Astronaut Reveals Emotional Distress After Wave of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also included accomplished professionals from different industries.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.