Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also carried well-known figures.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

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

“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.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the edge of outer space.

The group of women also comprised experts in various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.