Space Traveler Reveals Depression In the Wake of Deluge of Harassment Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after enduring a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured high-profile passengers.

The mission was widely scrutinized by some, who questioned its cost and carbon footprint.

Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an landslide of gendered hatred.

“I told her my depression might last for years,” she recounted in a public message, describing a check-in call from a fellow crew member in the period after the flight.

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

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” 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 women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was buried under the deluge of gendered attacks.

She is best known for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was paused after an attack during her college days, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since reaching space, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the supporters whose kindness helped save her. “Your support rescued me,” she said.

She concluded that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the experience, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating New Shepard rocket lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that exceeded the edge of space.

The diverse crew also included leaders in different industries.

The company behind the mission is a private space firm founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.