Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the flight, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.