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First Baked Cookie in Space on Display at Smithsonian
Almost four and a half years have passed since the world’s first food item was baked in outer space, but the unique aroma of a DoubleTree Cookie remains intact. The historic cookie, previously made aboard the International Space Station in November 2019, has been unveiled at the National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia. This significant achievement represents a groundbreaking collaboration involving Hilton, Nanoracks, and Zero-G Kitchen.
Preservation of a Culinary Milestone
The cookie, resembling those served at DoubleTree by Hilton hotels, has been carefully preserved to maintain its original condition. A silicone sleeve houses the cookie within a nitrogen environment to prevent degradation caused by exposure to oxygen. This precautionary measure ensures the cookie’s longevity on display, safeguarding it against moisture and mold.
Curator Jennifer Levasseur notes, “The cookie exudes a delightful baked aroma, provoking curiosity and admiration. However, such olfactory delights are reserved for preservation purposes, as exposure to air could compromise the cookie’s integrity.”
The Baking Process in Microgravity
Astronauts Christina Koch of NASA and Luca Parmitano of the European Space Agency played a pivotal role in perfecting the cookie’s preparation. Experimentation with temperature and timing resulted in the fifth and final batch, closely resembling the ideal cookie texture. The cookie was transported back to Earth in a freezer in early 2020 before arriving at the Smithsonian for public display.
The unique baking process signifies a remarkable milestone in space culinary exploration and sustainability research. By optimizing food preparation techniques, scientists aim to enhance the quality of life for astronauts during extended space missions.
Symbol of Innovation and Hospitality
Hilton’s involvement in this venture underscores the company’s commitment to innovation and service excellence. The inclusion of the DoubleTree cookie in the Smithsonian represents a historic achievement in space research. Shawn McAteer, Brand Leader for DoubleTree by Hilton, emphasizes the importance of this collaboration in pioneering space hospitality initiatives.
McAteer states, “The DoubleTree cookie epitomizes warm hospitality and exceptional service, reflecting our dedication to creating memorable experiences for our guests. This milestone underscores Hilton’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in space exploration.”
Future Display and Significance
Displayed alongside space food items in the James S. McDonnell Space Hangar, the DoubleTree cookie will soon find a new home in the National Air and Space Museum’s flagship building in Washington, D.C. It will be featured in the upcoming gallery “At Home in Space,” offering visitors a glimpse into space habitation and culinary research.
Levasseur affirms, “The cookie’s placement in the upcoming gallery highlights its role in space food consumption. Visitors can explore its significance alongside other artifacts within a recreated section of the International Space Station’s Destiny laboratory module.”
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