Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Backlash Following Journey
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn 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 – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, referring to a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.
She described the press attention and digital reaction as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and operated research during the flight, said every professional achievement – from her studies and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was deferred after an attack during her university years, leading to a long campaign for accountability.
The Fog Begins to Lift
Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose support pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.
She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The fully automated spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.
The team of pioneers also included leaders in different industries.
The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a well-known tech mogul.
