Astronaut Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, including spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.