Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also included well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

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

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in different industries.

The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.