Astronaut Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip

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 scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction 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.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, including elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in various fields.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.