Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle After ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism 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 earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.
She described the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the edge of space.
The group of women also featured experts in various fields.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
