Crew Member Shares Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also included well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the journey.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the flight, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.