Space Traveler Reveals Emotional Distress Following Deluge of Online Abuse 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 pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in April, which also included high-profile passengers.

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

Reflecting on the experience, the astronaut, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash eclipsed her moment under an “avalanche of misogyny”.

“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” the astronaut shared in a social media post, referring to a supportive conversation from a fellow crew member in the aftermath of the flight.

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

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has focused her career on women's health research and conducted tests during the flight, said everything she had worked for – from her studies and years of training to the personal milestone of her heritage – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is best known for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of victims of sexual violence.

Her own dream of becoming an astronaut was put on hold after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The Fog Begins to Lift

Now, eight months after reaching space, she noted the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose support pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.

She concluded that even with the backlash, considerable good had emerged from the flight, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The fully automated spacecraft launched from Texas in April, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also comprised accomplished professionals from different industries.

The venture behind the flight is a private space firm founded by a well-known tech mogul.