Space Traveler Discloses Depression Following Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the journey.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse 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.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from different industries.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.