Space Traveler Shares Depression After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

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

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

She described the news reports and online discourse 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. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had come out of the mission, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in various fields.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.