Astronaut Shares Depression After ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

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 celebrity crewmates.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the journey.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

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

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the mission, including elevated attention for her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also included accomplished professionals from various fields.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.