Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

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

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

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“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.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.