Crew Member Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Harassment Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
Amanda Nguyen – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized 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 negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“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.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and years of training to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.
She concluded that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the mission, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The group of women also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.
