Crew Member Shares Depression After ‘Tsunami of Backlash After Historic Trip

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

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

The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who was celebrated as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response buried her dreams under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a public message, referring to a check-in call from a mission companion in the period after the flight.

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

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

Buried Under Misogyny

The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the symbolic importance of her roots – was overshadowed under the avalanche of misogyny.

She is most acclaimed for her pioneering work protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after an attack during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she reports that the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose support helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that amid the criticism, considerable good had come out of the flight, such as increased focus on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that passed the edge of space.

The team of pioneers also comprised experts in different industries.

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