Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

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

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

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

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She noted that even with the backlash, important benefits had emerged from the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.