Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “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 women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the mission, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.