Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath 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 included well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the edge of space.

The group of women also included leaders in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.