Space Traveler Discloses Depression In the Wake of 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 wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, 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 experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, such as increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The diverse crew also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.
The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.