Crew Member Discloses Depression Following Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

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 landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had emerged from the experience, such as spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.