Crew Member Shares Depression After Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was buried under the avalanche 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 paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had emerged from the experience, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

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

The group of women also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.