Space Traveler Reveals Depression After Deluge of Harassment Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake 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 the spring, which also featured well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

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

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

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

She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also comprised experts in various fields.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.