Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy 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 revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed 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 an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included leaders in various fields.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.