Crew Member Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams 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 landing.

She described the press attention and digital reaction 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 confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was buried under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had come out of the mission, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

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