Crew Member Reveals Emotional Distress Following Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.
The mission was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, such as spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The group of women also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
