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

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also comprised experts in different industries.

The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.