Crew Member Discloses Depression After Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.
She described the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.
The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.
