Crew Member Discloses Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response 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 mission companion in the period after the journey.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

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

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the flight, such as spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the edge of outer space.

The group of women also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.