Space Traveler Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of 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. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.
She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She added that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the mission, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of outer space.
The group of women also included accomplished professionals from different industries.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
