Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.

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

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured leaders in different industries.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.