Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress After Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also included accomplished professionals from different industries.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.