Space Traveler Reveals Depression After Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted 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 unprecedented psychological assault.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She added that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, such as spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also included experts in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.