Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing 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 short-duration mission in April, which also included well-known figures.

The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

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

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had come out of the experience, including spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also comprised leaders in various fields.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.