Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

She portrayed 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

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from different industries.

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