Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment 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 supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following reaching space, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the flight, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in various fields.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.