Space Traveler Reveals Depression Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

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

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.