Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“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 fellow crew member in the days following the flight.
She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of outer space.
The team of pioneers also featured experts in different industries.
The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.