Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – 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 much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following 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 confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her studies and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

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

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following reaching space, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had come out of the experience, including spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.