Crew Member Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was buried under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the experience, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.