Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Wave of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

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

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a online statement, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the journey.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

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

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also included experts in various fields.

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