Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

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

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

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.

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

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.