Space Traveler Shares Depression Following Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

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

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

She portrayed 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 revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of misogyny.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

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.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in different industries.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.