Crew Member Shares Depression In the Wake of Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

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

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

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the mission, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included leaders in various fields.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.