Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle After ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

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 high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

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

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also comprised experts in various fields.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.