Crew Member Shares Depression After ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.

She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the mission, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the edge of space.

The group of women also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.

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