Space Traveler Discloses Depression After Deluge of Harassment Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She described 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 confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

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.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the experience, such as increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of space.

The group of women also featured leaders in different industries.

The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.