Space Traveler Shares Mental Health Struggle After ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

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

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

She described the press attention and digital reaction 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. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from 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 all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included leaders in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.