Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring 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 the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

She described the news reports and online discourse 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 operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

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.

A Path to Recovery

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The group of women also included experts in different industries.

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