🔗 Share this article Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight Amanda Nguyen, a bioastronautics research scientist, was onboard the automated spacecraft in April 2025. A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space. The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured 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 was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”. “I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing. She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault. “Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.” Eclipsed by Backlash The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny. She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence. Her own goal of reaching space was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability. Finding Solid Ground In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said. She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders. About the Mission The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that crossed the edge of space. The group of women also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines. The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.
Amanda Nguyen, a bioastronautics research scientist, was onboard the automated spacecraft in April 2025. A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space. The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured 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 was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”. “I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing. She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault. “Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.” Eclipsed by Backlash The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny. She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence. Her own goal of reaching space was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability. Finding Solid Ground In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said. She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders. About the Mission The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that crossed the edge of space. The group of women also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines. The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.