Astronaut Reveals Emotional Distress After Wave of Harassment Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space earlier this year, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The mission was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“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 period after the flight.

She portrayed 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 confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – from her lab work and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning fighting for justice for victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Months following achieving her goal, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose kindness pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the flight, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft departed Texas in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The team of pioneers also featured accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a well-known tech mogul.