Astronaut Reveals Depression Following Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

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

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

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

She described the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of survivors of assault.

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

Finding Solid Ground

Months following reaching space, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She noted that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had come out of the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip 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 Amazon founder.