Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.
She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Buried Under Misogyny
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her university years, 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 well-wishers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, including elevated attention for her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of space.
The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.
