Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress After Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her battle with depression after being subjected to a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – known as a researcher and activist – was part of the short-duration mission in April, which also carried celebrity crewmates.

The high-profile flight was widely scrutinized by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the negative reaction overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a public message, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the days following the journey.

She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an barrage beyond typical human coping.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and operated research during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her lab work and astronaut training to the personal milestone of her roots – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was put on hold after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she acknowledged the supporters whose support helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she affirmed.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the flight, including elevated attention for her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The computer-piloted spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a brief suborbital flight that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also featured leaders in different industries.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.