Astronaut Shares Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the journey.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

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

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and years of training to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the flight, such as spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

The Historic Journey

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

The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.