Crew Member Shares Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

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

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“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 aftermath of the journey.

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 confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, such as increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of space.

The group of women also included leaders in different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.