Space Traveler Reveals Depression After Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

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

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

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the journey.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.

She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused 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 heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the experience, including spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of space.

The group of women also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.

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