Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

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

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

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from different industries.

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