Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the journey.
She described the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“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.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the tide of misogyny.
She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.
The group of women also included experts in various fields.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
