Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The mission was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She characterized 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 confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of misogyny.

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

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the experience, including spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.