Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also included high-profile passengers.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy 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 revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had come out of the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.

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