Astronaut Shares Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake 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 carried well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

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

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

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

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of space.

The group of women also comprised experts in various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.