Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as 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,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

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

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

A Path to Recovery

In the time since reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the flight, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.

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