Crew Member Reveals Emotional Distress After Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also featured well-known figures.

The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a social media post, recalling a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

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

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and performed experiments during the flight, said all her lifelong efforts – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her roots – was drowned out under the avalanche of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had come out of the flight, including increased focus on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of outer space.

The diverse crew also comprised accomplished professionals from various fields.

The venture behind the mission is a private space firm established by a Amazon founder.