Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy 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.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

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

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the mission, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

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