Crew Member Reveals Depression Following Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

She characterized 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 wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also comprised leaders in different industries.

The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.