Crew Member Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also included well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

She described 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 wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of outer space.

The group of women also comprised experts in various fields.

The company behind the flight is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.