Space Traveler Reveals Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, such as increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also included experts in different industries.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.