Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the experience, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of outer space.

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

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.