Crew Member Reveals Depression Following Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction buried her dreams 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 journey.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“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 women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after surviving a rape during her college days, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement were her lifeline. “Your support rescued me,” she affirmed.

She concluded that despite the negativity, considerable good had emerged from the mission, including elevated attention for her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft launched from Texas in the spring, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.

The diverse crew also featured experts in various fields.

The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a Amazon founder.