Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed 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 – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction 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 revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the mission, such as spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.