Crew Member Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.

The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

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

She characterized the news reports and online discourse 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. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

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

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had emerged from the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.