Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the journey.
She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “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 conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
Months following reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of space.
The group of women also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
