Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a online statement, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had emerged from the mission, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.