Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “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 conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the flight, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The group of women also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.
