Space Traveler Reveals Depression Following Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.

She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She added that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.