Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

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.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had emerged from the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also featured experts in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.