Astronaut Discloses Depression In the Wake of Wave of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse 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 in the spring, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

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

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack 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 followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised experts in different industries.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.