Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” 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 dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.

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

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.