Astronaut Shares Depression After Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after 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 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 mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

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. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had resulted from the flight, such as spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.