Crew Member Discloses Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

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

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Months following achieving her goal, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of space.

The group of women also featured experts in different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.