Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress After Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also included well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

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

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.