Astronaut Shares Depression After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey
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 historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission in the spring, which also featured celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the journey.
She portrayed the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her studies and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of misogyny.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy fighting for justice for sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.
She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
The Historic Journey
The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the Kármán line of space.
The team of pioneers also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.
The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm launched by a Amazon founder.
