Crew Member Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, 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 explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.
She described 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. “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 gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She added that even with the backlash, considerable good had emerged from the mission, 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 April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of outer space.
The diverse crew also featured experts in different industries.
The venture behind the flight is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
