Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also carried well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the experience, such as increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of space.

The group of women also featured experts in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.