Astronaut Shares Emotional Distress After Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also included high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy 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. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her roots – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

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

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

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also comprised leaders in different industries.

The company behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.