Crew Member Reveals Depression Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a massive wave of online abuse 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 the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“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 focused her career on women's health research and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the mission, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.
The group of women also featured leaders in different industries.
The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.
