Crew Member Discloses Depression Following Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams 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 supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.
She described 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 revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the deluge of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the experience, such as spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
