Astronaut Shares Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse 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 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured well-known figures.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the landing.
She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was drowned out under the tide of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was deferred after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose support were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the mission, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The group of women also included experts in various fields.
The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
