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

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.

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

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, including spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of space.

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

The company behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.