Crew Member Reveals Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.
The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the short-duration mission earlier this year, which also carried celebrity crewmates.
The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a online statement, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the landing.
She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her background – 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 goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following fulfilling her dream, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She noted that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the experience, such as elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The fully automated New Shepard rocket lifted off from Texas in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the edge of outer space.
The diverse crew also comprised experts in various fields.
The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.