Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also carried well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams 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 aftermath of the flight.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, including spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.

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