Astronaut Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“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.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She concluded that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the mission, including increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also featured experts in multiple disciplines.

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