Crew Member Discloses Depression Following Deluge of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had emerged from the mission, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of space.

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.