Crew Member Reveals Depression After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“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.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.

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

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in different industries.

The company behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.