Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse 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 high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

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

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the edge of outer space.

The group of women also comprised leaders in different industries.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm established by a well-known tech mogul.