Crew Member Reveals Depression After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

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

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

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the mission, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The self-operating spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.