Crew Member Shares Emotional Distress After Wave of Backlash Following Journey

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

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the flight, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in multiple disciplines.

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