Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.