Crew Member Reveals Emotional Distress After Deluge of Harassment Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” 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 earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the journey.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.

She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

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

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of outer space.

The diverse crew also included experts in different industries.

The company behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.