Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Backlash Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.
She described the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and years of training to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of gendered attacks.
She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after being assaulted during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.
The Fog Begins to Lift
In the time since fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.
She noted that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.
About the Mission
The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of space.
The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.
The venture behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.
