Crew Member Reveals Depression Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following 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 revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

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

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

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