Space Traveler Shares Depression After ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, including elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised experts in different industries.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.