Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress Following Wave of Backlash 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 aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also included high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She added that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, including elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
Flight Details
The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of outer space.
The group of women also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
