Astronaut Discloses Emotional Distress Following ‘Tsunami of Online Abuse Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the wake of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

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

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

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a phone call from a fellow crew member in the period after the landing.

She portrayed 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 confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her roots – was overshadowed under the tide of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work championing the cause of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a years-long quest for justice.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since achieving her goal, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that despite the negativity, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the mission, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

About the Mission

The fully automated New Shepard rocket departed Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of outer space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in multiple disciplines.

The enterprise behind the mission is a private space firm established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.