Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress After Wave of Harassment Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the flight, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of space.
The team of pioneers also featured leaders in different industries.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.
