Astronaut Shares Emotional Distress Following Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse 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 brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.

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

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that even with the backlash, considerable good had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

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

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.