Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath 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 celebrity crewmates.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash 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, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm established by a well-known tech mogul.