Space Traveler Shares Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.

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 wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.