Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.

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