Space Traveler Reveals Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

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

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the flight, such as spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also included experts in different industries.

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