Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake 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 April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction 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, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

She described the press attention and digital reaction 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 wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had come out of the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured leaders in different industries.

The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.