Crew Member Reveals Depression Following Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value 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 said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.
She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“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 focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.
Her own goal of reaching space was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.
She concluded that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the mission, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of outer space.
The diverse crew also comprised leaders in different industries.
The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.
