Space Traveler Discloses Depression Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn 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 the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, such as spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also included experts in different industries.

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