Crew Member Shares Depression Following Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” 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 earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The mission was heavily criticized 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 negative reaction 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 mission companion in the days following the landing.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She added that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The group of women also featured experts in various fields.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.