Space Traveler Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Deluge of Backlash Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the period after the journey.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the mission, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the tide of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

Finding Solid Ground

Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

About the Mission

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also featured experts in various fields.

The enterprise behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a well-known tech mogul.