Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle After ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey

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

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She added that even with the backlash, considerable good had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.