A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, including elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the Kármán line of space.
The group of women also included experts in different industries.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.
A seasoned journalist with a passion for uncovering stories that matter in the Czech Republic and beyond.
