Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

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 messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also included accomplished professionals from various fields.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm established by a well-known tech mogul.