Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also included high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the journey.
She portrayed 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 revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is best known for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, including spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the Kármán line of space.
The group of women also featured accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.