Food enthusiasts and space fans with deep pockets can now experience gourmet dining in the stratosphere, thanks to a new offering from SpaceVIP. For nearly half a million dollars per ticket, guests can embark on a six-hour journey aboard a high-tech space balloon, curated by renowned Danish chef Rasmus Munk.
The unique opportunity has already garnered significant interest, with inquiries flooding in soon after its announcement. The trip, set to launch next year, will send six guests 100,000 feet above sea level, where they can enjoy the sunrise against the backdrop of the earth’s curvature.
In addition to the breathtaking views, guests will also have access to onboard wifi, allowing them to livestream their adventure to friends and family back on Earth. The menu, curated by Chef Munk, is still in development but promises to mirror the innovative spirit of the journey. Ideas include aerogel-inspired food and encapsulated aroma.
SpaceVIP founder Roman Chiporukha has revealed that the company has already identified dozens of qualified participants eager to embark on this once-in-a-lifetime experience. With limited seating available, they anticipate securing all passengers within the coming weeks.
The spacecraft, created by Space Perspectives, uses a space balloon for ascent, a technology first pioneered by NASA. This means that travelers do not need rigorous training or specialized equipment to participate in the journey.
This venture is not the first of its kind, with France-based Zephalto announcing similar plans last year to offer stratospheric balloon dining experiences starting in 2025 at a slightly lower price point.
The combination of luxury dining and space travel represents a new frontier in experiential tourism, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in both gastronomy and exploration. As technology continues to advance, it will be fascinating to see how these experiences evolve and become more accessible to a broader audience.