Astronaut Shares Depression Following Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.

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

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from various fields.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.