Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also included high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the journey.

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

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised experts in different industries.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.