Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

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

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had emerged from the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that passed the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also featured experts in various fields.

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