Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse 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 in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the mission, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the edge of space.

The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.