Taste of Space: Celebrity Chef's Beyond the Plate

Taste of Space continues its celebrity-filled weekend! On November 16, explore where cuisine meets the cosmos with a book signing and a one-of-a-kind fireside chat. This two-part event is included with admission to the visitor complex: 

Space Shuttle Atlantis® – 1:30 PM

Join us for a fascinating conversation with celebrity chefs Jet Tila and Amanda Freitag, hosted by Vickie Kloeris, former NASA food scientist and pioneer of space cuisine. This unique culinary conversation will explore the intersection of international flavors and space innovation in celebration of the International Space Station’s 25th anniversary this year.   

Jet and Amanda will share stories and perspectives about their favorite international dishes, and we will dive into Vickie’s work feeding hundreds of astronauts aboard the International Space Station. Vickie will offer behind-the-scenes stories for the fascinating process of adapting beloved meals for space travel, facing complex challenges of creating delicious and nutritious meals that support the many needs of astronauts living off-planet. 

The event will also include a brief question and answer opportunity, giving you the chance to ask the group about their inspirations, cooking tips, and impressive careers! To top it off, they will be available for photos, making this a truly memorable experience for food lovers and space enthusiasts alike.   

Please note that there will be limited seating available on a first come, first served basis. Due to the timing of the event, no autographs will be given.   

The Space Shop – 10:30 to 11:30 AM

Want to learn more about Vickie Kloeris’s experience with NASA’s space food systems? Purchase your own copy of her book titled “Space Bites: Reflections of a NASA Food Scientist” inside The Space Shop and get it signed by the author herself on the second floor. Book quantities are limited, so arrive early to get your copy!