Space Traveler Shares Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Backlash Following Journey

A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her battle with depression after enduring a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight earlier this year, which also included high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, recalling a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

She portrayed the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.

“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she revealed. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Eclipsed by Backlash

The researcher, who has conducted studies in women's health research and performed experiments during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her scientific research and extensive preparation to the personal milestone of her heritage – was drowned out under the deluge of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

A Path to Recovery

Months following fulfilling her dream, she reports that the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose kindness were her lifeline. “You all saved me,” she affirmed.

She noted that despite the negativity, important benefits had come out of the mission, such as spotlight on her women's health research and chances to influence leaders.

Flight Details

The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from its launch site in the spring, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the Kármán line of outer space.

The team of pioneers also included leaders in multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company established by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.