Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.

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

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy 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.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, including elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of outer space.

The group of women also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.