Astronaut Reveals Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also included high-profile passengers.
The mission was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.
She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since achieving her goal, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.
She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, such as spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The self-operating spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from different industries.
The company behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.
