Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress After Deluge of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized 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 buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

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

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and performed experiments during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that amid the criticism, considerable good had resulted from the mission, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also included leaders in different industries.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a well-known tech mogul.