Astronaut Discloses Mental Health Struggle Following Wave of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” 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 brief journey to space earlier this year, which also included celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was heavily criticized by some, who questioned its cost and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I told her my depression might last for years,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.
She described the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she wrote. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”
Eclipsed by Backlash
The researcher, who has focused her career on gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – from her studies and years of training to the historic significance of her heritage – was buried under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was paused after being assaulted during her university years, leading to a years-long quest for justice.
Finding Solid Ground
Now, eight months after fulfilling her dream, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she thanked the followers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she said.
She concluded that despite the negativity, important benefits had resulted from the mission, such as increased focus on her scientific work and chances to influence leaders.
About the Mission
The self-operating spacecraft lifted off from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the Kármán line of outer space.
The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The enterprise behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.
