Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

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

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

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became 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,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the edge of space.

The group of women also comprised experts in different industries.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.