Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.
She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The group of women also included experts in multiple disciplines.
The company behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.
