Crew Member Shares Emotional Distress After Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – known 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 challenged its value and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion 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 revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.
She noted that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, including increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The team of pioneers also included leaders in multiple disciplines.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.