🔗 Share this article Space Traveler Shares Depression Following Wave of Backlash Following Journey The scientist and activist, a bioastronautics research scientist, was onboard the automated spacecraft in April 2025. A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission. Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also included celebrity crewmates. The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint. Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred. “I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing. She portrayed 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 wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.” Eclipsed by Backlash The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol. 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 surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle. Finding Solid Ground In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote. She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the mission, such as spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders. Flight Details The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of outer space. The diverse crew also included experts in various fields. The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
The scientist and activist, a bioastronautics research scientist, was onboard the automated spacecraft in April 2025. A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission. Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also included celebrity crewmates. The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint. Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred. “I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing. She portrayed 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 wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.” Eclipsed by Backlash The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol. 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 surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle. Finding Solid Ground In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote. She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the mission, such as spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders. Flight Details The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of outer space. The diverse crew also included experts in various fields. The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.