🔗 Share this article Astronaut Shares Depression Following ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip Amanda Nguyen, a bioastronautics research scientist, was onboard the New Shepard NS-31 rocket in April 2025. A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission. The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates. The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact. Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse. “I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight. She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy 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. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.” Buried Under Misogyny The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol. She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault. Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice. The Fog Begins to Lift Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said. She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities. About the Mission The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space. The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines. The company behind the mission is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.
Amanda Nguyen, a bioastronautics research scientist, was onboard the New Shepard NS-31 rocket in April 2025. A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission. The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates. The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact. Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse. “I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight. She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy 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. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.” Buried Under Misogyny The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol. She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault. Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice. The Fog Begins to Lift Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said. She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities. About the Mission The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space. The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines. The company behind the mission is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.