Astronaut Discloses Depression In the Wake of Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler 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 short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the flight, such as spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The self-operating spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.

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