Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.

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

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.

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