Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also featured high-profile passengers.
The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, 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, 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 “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her pioneering work fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after an attack during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
A Path to Recovery
Months following reaching space, she has stated the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose support were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.
She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had emerged from the mission, such as elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
Flight Details
The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.
The group of women also comprised leaders in different industries.
The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.