Crew Member Reveals Depression Following Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring 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 brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured well-known figures.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the flight.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

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

A Path to Recovery

In the time since reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She added that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.