Crew Member Reveals Emotional Distress Following Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of space.

The group of women also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.

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