Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had resulted from the flight, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also comprised leaders in various fields.

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