Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “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 women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She concluded that despite the negativity, considerable good had come out of the experience, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.

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