Space Traveler Discloses Depression After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.
She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.
She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the experience, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that crossed the edge of space.
The team of pioneers also featured experts in multiple disciplines.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.
