Crew Member Reveals Mental Health Struggle In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her struggle with mental health after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The mission was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of 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 wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had resulted from the experience, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

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 internationally recognized boundary of space.

The diverse crew also featured experts in various fields.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.