Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress After Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

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

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “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 women's health research and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had come out of the experience, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in different industries.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.