Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “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 performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also featured leaders in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.