Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress After Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the experience, such as spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in different industries.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.