Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed 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 researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.

The high-profile flight 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 overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included leaders in multiple disciplines.

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