Crew Member Reveals Depression After ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

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

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

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy 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 revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She added that even with the backlash, considerable good had emerged from the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.