Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the mission, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

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