Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

She portrayed 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. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that even with the backlash, important benefits had emerged from the experience, including elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in different industries.

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