Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress Following Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The mission was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.