Crew Member Shares Depression In the Wake of Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also carried well-known figures.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“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.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The company behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.