Astronaut Discloses Mental Health Struggle After ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

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

The mission was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also included experts in different industries.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.