Space Traveler Discloses Depression After Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse 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 revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the mission, such as spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also included experts in different industries.

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