Space Traveler Shares Depression After Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

Astronaut during mission
The scientist and activist, a women's health researcher, was aboard the New Shepard NS-31 rocket in April 2025.

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

She characterized 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. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, such as increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in different industries.

The company behind the flight is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.

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