Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress Following 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 historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

She described the press attention and digital reaction 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 wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the mission, such as increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the edge of outer space.

The group of women also featured leaders in various fields.

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