Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after being subjected to 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 celebrity crewmates.

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

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the experience, including increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also included leaders in various fields.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.