Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

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

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the experience, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.

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