Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.

She is best known for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had come out of the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.