Crew Member Reveals Depression After Wave of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Months following reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, including increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised experts in different industries.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.