Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.
She described the press attention and digital reaction 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 confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.
She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of outer space.
The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.
The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.
