Space Traveler Shares Mental Health Struggle After ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after facing 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 in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Months following reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, including spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.