Crew Member Reveals Depression After Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey

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

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

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

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

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

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had come out of the flight, such as spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in various fields.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.