Crew Member Discloses Depression Following Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

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

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the experience, such as increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of space.

The group of women also comprised experts in various fields.

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