Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

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 explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She described 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. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her lab work and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.

She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the experience, including spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of outer space.

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

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.