Space Traveler Discloses Depression After Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, including elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.

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