Crew Member Reveals Depression After Wave of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Months following achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had emerged from the mission, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in different industries.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.