Crew Member Discloses Depression Following Deluge of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

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

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the supporters whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the mission, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The group of women also comprised leaders in different industries.

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