Space Traveler Shares Depression Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the experience, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

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