Space Traveler Shares Depression Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She added that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the flight, including spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft departed its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The team of pioneers also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

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