Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history 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 phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.
She described the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the mission, including increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
Flight Details
The self-operating spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that crossed 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 launched by a well-known tech mogul.
