Astronaut Discloses Depression After Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

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 confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also included leaders in various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.