Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism 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 well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction 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.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

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

A Path to Recovery

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had emerged from the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also featured experts in different industries.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.