Crew Member Discloses Depression After Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a online statement, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

She described 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. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in various fields.

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