Crew Member Shares Depression After Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the experience, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of space.
The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.
The company behind the mission is a private space firm established by a well-known tech mogul.
