Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried well-known figures.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.
She described the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
Months following achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the mission, including elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
Flight Details
The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of outer space.
The team of pioneers also included experts in various fields.
The company behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.
