Crew Member Reveals Depression After ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.
She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.
She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that crossed the edge of space.
The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.