Astronaut Shares Depression Following Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“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 women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy 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 long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, such as spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised leaders in different industries.

The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.