Crew Member Shares Emotional Distress After Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included celebrity crewmates.

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

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

She characterized 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. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Months following reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, such as spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also included experts in multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.