Space Traveler Reveals Depression Following Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

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

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and years of training to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

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

She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the experience, including increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also included leaders in multiple disciplines.

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