Astronaut Discloses Mental Health Struggle After Wave of Backlash After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also included well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

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 revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she acknowledged the followers whose kindness helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she said.

She added that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had come out of the mission, including elevated attention for her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The computer-piloted spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a short trip that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The group of women also included accomplished professionals from different industries.

The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.