Crew Member Reveals Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

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 wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

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

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

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the experience, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

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