Astronaut Shares Depression Following Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

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

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse 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 revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.