Space Traveler Shares 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 facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse 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. “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 every professional achievement – from her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of space.

The group of women also featured experts in various fields.

The company behind the flight is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.