Astronaut Reveals Emotional Distress After Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the wake 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 featured high-profile passengers.

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

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

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had emerged from the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised leaders in various fields.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.