Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Wave of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also carried well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of outer space.

The group of women also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

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