Astronaut Shares Depression After ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

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 included well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the landing.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

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

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the supporters whose kindness were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, including increased focus on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the Kármán line of space.

The team of pioneers also included experts in various fields.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.