Astronaut Reveals Depression Following Deluge of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

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

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