Crew Member Discloses Emotional Distress In the Wake of Deluge of Online Abuse After Historic Trip
A pioneering space traveler has opened up regarding her emotional downturn after enduring a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a landmark journey to the edge of space.
The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in the spring, which also included celebrity crewmates.
The much-publicized journey was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and carbon footprint.
Reflecting on the ordeal, the astronaut, who made history as the pioneer for her community, stated the intense backlash overshadowed her achievement under an landslide of gendered hatred.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” she recounted in a online statement, referring to a phone call from a mission companion in the days following the landing.
She portrayed the news reports and online discourse as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she revealed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has dedicated her work to gynecological science and conducted tests during the mission, said everything she had worked for – from her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was drowned out under the tide of sexist vitriol.
She is most acclaimed for her groundbreaking advocacy protecting the rights of survivors of assault.
Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after surviving a rape during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
Finding Solid Ground
Months following achieving her goal, she has stated the deepest pain is gradually receding, and she expressed gratitude the well-wishers whose messages of encouragement pulled her through. “You were my salvation,” she said.
She added that amid the criticism, important benefits had emerged from the experience, such as spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.
Flight Details
The self-operating New Shepard rocket launched from Texas in April, carrying the six-woman crew on a 11-minute journey that crossed the internationally recognized boundary of space.
The diverse crew also included accomplished professionals from multiple disciplines.
The company behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company founded by a Amazon founder.
