Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Harassment Following Journey

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

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

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

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy 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. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She concluded that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the mission, including increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also featured leaders in various fields.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.