Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

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

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Months following reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the mission, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

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

The group of women also comprised experts in different industries.

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