Crew Member Shares Depression In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

Amanda Nguyen – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included high-profile passengers.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a online statement, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“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

Ms. Nguyen, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She added that even with the backlash, important benefits had come out of the experience, including elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in different industries.

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