Astronaut Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated 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 met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

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

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Months following achieving her goal, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The self-operating spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised experts in various fields.

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