Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of Wave of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

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

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, 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 social media post, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, such as increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.