Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, including spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also included leaders in different industries.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.