Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

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

The mission was widely scrutinized 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 intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

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. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

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

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also included leaders in various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.