Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, such as spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.