Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had emerged from the mission, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also comprised experts in various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.