Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress After Deluge of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also included well-known figures.

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

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a online statement, describing a phone call from a mission companion in the aftermath of the flight.

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

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her scientific research and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the followers whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She concluded that even with the backlash, significant positive outcomes had resulted from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a short trip that exceeded the edge of outer space.

The group of women also comprised leaders in various fields.

The company behind the flight is a private space firm established by a well-known tech mogul.