Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Online Abuse Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the journey.

She portrayed 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. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and operated research during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the mission, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in various fields.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.