Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the journey.

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

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the supporters whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, including increased focus on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of space.

The group of women also featured experts in various fields.

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