Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress After Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

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

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

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

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

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 wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research 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 drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.

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

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had come out of the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also included experts in various fields.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.