A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also included high-profile passengers.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.
She described the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the flight, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
The fully automated spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the edge of space.
The group of women also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.
A tech analyst and business strategist with over a decade of experience in global markets, specializing in digital transformation and innovation.
