Crew Member Discloses Depression After Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

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

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following reaching space, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the mission, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured leaders in different industries.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.