Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried well-known figures.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the journey.
She described the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following reaching space, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.
The team of pioneers also included experts in multiple disciplines.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
