Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of space.

The group of women also included accomplished professionals from various fields.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.