Astronaut Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the mission, such as increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also included leaders in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the flight is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.