Crew Member Reveals Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

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

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also included leaders in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.