Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress After Wave of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

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

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

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.

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.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured leaders in various fields.

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