Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the flight, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.