Astronaut Discloses Depression After Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

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

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after 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. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of misogyny.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the mission, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the edge of outer space.

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

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.