Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress Following Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing 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 short-duration mission in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“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

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also featured leaders in different industries.

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