Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath 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 April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

She described the press attention and digital reaction 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.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

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

She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of space.

The group of women also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.