Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” 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 brief journey to space in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

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

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

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the Kármán line of space.

The group of women also included experts in different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.