Astronaut Discloses Depression After Wave of Harassment After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her background – was buried under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

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

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She added that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

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