Space Traveler Shares Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The self-operating spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The group of women also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.