Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

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

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

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

Finding Solid Ground

Months following reaching space, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.