A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health 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 short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.
She described the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She added that even with the backlash, considerable good had resulted from the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The group of women also included leaders in different industries.
The venture behind the mission is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.
