Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress Following Wave of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“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.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had resulted from the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also featured experts in various fields.

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