Astronaut Shares Depression In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also featured leaders in various fields.

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