Space Traveler Reveals Depression After Deluge of Harassment Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also carried well-known figures.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.
She characterized the news reports and online discourse 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 wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had come out of the experience, including elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of space.
The diverse crew also featured accomplished professionals from various fields.
The company behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.
