Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

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

The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

She portrayed 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. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the experience, such as spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also included experts in different industries.

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