Space Traveler Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment After Historic Trip

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” 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 in the spring, which also included celebrity crewmates.

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

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the days following the flight.

She characterized the press attention and digital reaction as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and years of training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was buried under the tide of misogyny.

She is best known for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she has stated the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the supporters whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She added that even with the backlash, considerable good had come out of the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft departed Texas in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured experts in different industries.

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