Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“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 conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She added that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, such as increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The team of pioneers also included experts in multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.
