Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“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 conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The self-operating spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also featured experts in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.