Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

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 revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

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

A Path to Recovery

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in various fields.

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