Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a online statement, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
Flight Details
The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of space.
The team of pioneers also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.
