Space Traveler Shares Depression After Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also included high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

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

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

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

The company behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.