Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress After Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip

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

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a online statement, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – 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 dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had resulted from the experience, such as increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.

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