Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing 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 short-duration mission in the spring, which also included well-known figures.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.
She described the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The diverse crew also included experts in multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
