Space Traveler Discloses Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a online statement, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.
She portrayed 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 confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the flight, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The group of women also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.