Astronaut Discloses Depression After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

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

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

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

She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has conducted studies in female health science and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that crossed the Kármán line of space.

The group of women also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.