Crew Member Shares Depression After ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had emerged from the mission, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also featured experts in various fields.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.