Astronaut Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – 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 questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.

She characterized 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 revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

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

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the flight, such as spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in different industries.

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