Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included celebrity crewmates.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.
She portrayed 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 wrote. “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 operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of space.
The team of pioneers also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a Amazon founder.
