Space Traveler Reveals Depression After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

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

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.

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

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the experience, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm established by a well-known tech mogul.