Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress After Deluge of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

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,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“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

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She added that even with the backlash, considerable good had resulted from the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from different industries.

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