Crew Member Discloses Depression Following Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

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

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in different industries.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.