Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

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

“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 period after the flight.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction 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. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the flight, including elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.