Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress After Deluge of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Months following reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of outer space.

The group of women also featured experts in multiple disciplines.

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