🔗 Share this article Space Traveler Shares Depression Following Deluge of Backlash Following Journey The scientist and activist, a bioastronautics research scientist, was aboard the New Shepard NS-31 rocket in Spring 2025. A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight. Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also carried well-known figures. The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint. Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred. “I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing. She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping. “I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “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 conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks. She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence. Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle. The Fog Begins to Lift Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote. She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities. The Historic Journey The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of outer space. The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in various fields. The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
The scientist and activist, a bioastronautics research scientist, was aboard the New Shepard NS-31 rocket in Spring 2025. A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight. Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also carried well-known figures. The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint. Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred. “I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing. She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping. “I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “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 conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks. She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence. Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle. The Fog Begins to Lift Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote. She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities. The Historic Journey The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of outer space. The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in various fields. The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.