Crew Member Reveals Depression In the Wake of Wave of Harassment Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, 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,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

She described the press attention and digital reaction 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 confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge 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 surviving a rape 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 followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the mission, including spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also included experts in multiple disciplines.

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