Crew Member Shares Depression After Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.

She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the experience, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.

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