Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

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

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “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 gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had emerged from the flight, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.