Space Traveler Discloses Depression Following Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused 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 has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She added that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, such as spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The company behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.