Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the experience, including elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also featured leaders in different industries.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.