Space Traveler Reveals Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey

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

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried well-known figures.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a online statement, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“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.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also included leaders in various fields.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.