Space Traveler Reveals Depression After Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” 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 featured high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, such as spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
About the Mission
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The diverse crew also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
