Astronaut Reveals Emotional Distress Following Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history 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 social media post, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the journey.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the mission, such as increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.