Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Wave of Backlash Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried well-known figures.
The mission was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response 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 fellow crew member in the period after the landing.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of outer space.
The group of women also included experts in various fields.
The venture behind the flight is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.
