Astronaut Reveals Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the ordeal, 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, recalling a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the days following the landing.

She described the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and years of training to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

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

Finding Solid Ground

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of space.

The diverse crew also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.