Crew Member Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the journey.

She portrayed 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 confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

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

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also comprised experts in different industries.

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