Crew Member Discloses Depression After Deluge of Online Abuse Following Journey
A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after being subjected to a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also carried high-profile passengers.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.
Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a online statement, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.
She characterized the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“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.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has focused her career on female health science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was overshadowed under the deluge of gendered attacks.
She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she acknowledged the followers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “Your support rescued me,” she wrote.
She noted that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the mission, including increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
About the Mission
The computer-piloted spacecraft departed its launch site in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The team of pioneers also included leaders in various fields.
The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.