Crew Member Shares Depression Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

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

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had emerged from the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

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

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from different industries.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.