Space Traveler Discloses Depression After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

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

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy 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 long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She added that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also included experts in various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.