Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

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

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the tide of misogyny.

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

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she said.

She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had come out of the mission, including increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also comprised experts in different industries.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.