Space Traveler Reveals Depression In the Wake of Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included well-known figures.
The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.
She described the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the edge of space.
The group of women also featured experts in multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.