Space Traveler Discloses Depression Following Deluge of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

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

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” 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 conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She added that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the experience, such as spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured experts in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.