Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

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

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her college days, 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 expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The company behind the flight is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.