Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history 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,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the experience, such as increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in different industries.

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