Crew Member Shares Depression After Deluge of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“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 mission companion 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. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, such as spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the edge of outer space.

The group of women also included leaders in different industries.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.