Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress Following Deluge 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 – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a check-in call 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.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of 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 conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the mission, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of outer space.

The group of women also featured leaders in different industries.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.