Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also featured experts in different industries.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.