Space Traveler Shares Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became 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,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

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

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in various fields.

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