Space Traveler Reveals Depression Following Wave of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also included well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.

She portrayed 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 confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since reaching space, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also featured leaders in different industries.

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