Space Traveler Discloses Depression Following Wave of Harassment Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She characterized 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 confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also featured experts in various fields.

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