Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

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

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a online statement, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

In the time since reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the experience, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The group of women also included accomplished professionals from various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a Amazon founder.