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

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her studies and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

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

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Months following reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the experience, such as spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the edge of outer space.

The group of women also comprised experts in different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.