Space Traveler Shares Depression Following Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

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

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

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

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

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also comprised leaders in various fields.

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