Crew Member Reveals Depression Following ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

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

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.

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 revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.