Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She portrayed 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. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in various fields.

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