Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She described 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 wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, 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 well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the flight, including spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.

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