ASTROFEAST
SPECULATIVE PROJECT | BIODESIGN
Collaborator/consultant
Eric Hwang | Mike Guo
Year
2025
Eating experiences will play a fundamental role in shaping and enriching our space journeys. This project envisions a multisensory enhancement—physical, psychological, and visual—for future space travel, bringing vitality to the otherwise cold and utilitarian interiors of spacecraft.
AstroFeast envisions the possible future of yeast as a space supplement, grounded in the scientific concept of heterologous production of flavour and aroma compounds in the yeast species, Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
This project addresses the aesthetic, physiological, and psychological needs of space travelers in a zero-gravity environment. By merging science, art, and design, AstroFeast proposes a new vision for life on future long-term space missions and interstellar journeys, introducing a new dimension to space nutrition and human well-being.
The shape of the container draws inspiration from jellyfish and blooming flowers, reflecting nature’s organic and dynamic forms. As the yeast produces CO2, AstroFeast becomes a visible, living food that evolves in real time, offering a truly unique dining experience. Travelers can select their preferred flavors and colors then place them into the container. During the yeast's fermentation process, they can enjoy the healing and companionship of petals blooming.
Credits
Project Concept and Design｜Joanna Cheng
3D Modeling and Object Production｜Joanna Cheng
Touchdesigner collaborator｜Liyieon Lien
Project photography and filming｜Allison Chuang
Film Production｜Joanna Cheng
Film Director｜Joanna Cheng
Special thanks｜Joseph Popper, Kuang-Yi Ku, Juno Chen, Chia-Yi Li
Science Consultant
Eric Hwang | Distinguished Professor and Director, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Bioengineering, College of Engineering Bioscience, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University
Mike Kuo | NASA Houston Johnson Space Center Space food and water Senior Scientist
