Astronaut Reveals Emotional Distress Following Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also included well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, 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 said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in various fields.

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