Crew Member Shares Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also carried well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the flight, such as spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of space.

The group of women also featured experts in various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.