Thanksgiving in space is an extraordinary event that showcases the adaptability and spirit of astronauts far from Earth. Aboard the International Space Station (ISS), the eight astronauts currently on duty, including the notable Boeing Starliner test crew members Barry Wilmore and Sunita Williams, will experience a unique celebration, even though they're miles away from their traditional Thanksgiving gatherings.

Recently, the SpaceX CRS-31 supply mission delivered approximately 2,119 pounds (961 kilograms) of crew supplies, filled with holiday treats. NASA's meticulous preparation ensures that astronauts enjoy festive meals that are not only nutritious but also safe to eat in microgravity. The food undergoes processing at NASA's Space Food Systems Laboratory, where it's sealed in plastic packets to ensure a long shelf life and can easily be rehydrated or reheated.

The Evolution of Thanksgiving in Space

The tradition of celebrating Thanksgiving in space began aboard Skylab 4 in 1973. On November 22 of that year, astronauts Gerald P. Carr, William E. Pogue, and Edward G. Gibson had a special meal following a lengthy spacewalk, although it lacked traditional holiday fixings.

By the mid-1980s, festive foods made their way into space. During the STS-61-A mission aboard space shuttle Atlantis in 1985, astronauts indulged in shelf-stable turkey, cranberry sauce, and shrimp cocktail. The introduction of tortillas, which do not create crumbs in low gravity, became a game-changer in space dining.

Fast forward to 1997, where a record nine astronauts celebrated Thanksgiving simultaneously, with crews aboard the Mir space station and the Columbia orbiter exchanging greetings. Their holiday meal included turkey, mashed potatoes, and peas, representing international cooperation in space.

Modern Celebrations and Delicious Menus

The ISS has been the primary hub for Thanksgiving celebrations since November 23, 2000, when the Expedition 1 crew enjoyed smoked turkey and ham. In the following years, unique meals continued, including cardboard turkey decorations and diverse culinary offerings like candied yams and blueberry-cherry cobbler.

In 2021 alone, astronauts from Expedition 70 were treated to a luxurious meal delivered via the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. Their Thanksgiving feast featured a variety of dishes such as turkey, duck, quail, seafood, and an assortment of festive snacks like hummus and salsa. Dessert options included flavors like pumpkin spice cappuccino and mochi, ensuring the crew experienced a taste of home even in orbit.

Why Thanksgiving in Space Matters

The celebration of Thanksgiving in space is more than just a hearty meal. It serves as a reminder of the bonds we share with one another, regardless of distance. Astronauts often take the time to reflect on their experiences and express gratitude for their unique roles as ambassadors of Earth, fostering camaraderie not just among themselves but also with those back home.

As we approach Thanksgiving 2024, the question remains: how will the astronauts this year utilize their creativity and resourcefulness to celebrate amidst the stars? One thing is for sure—no matter where they are, the spirit of Thanksgiving, marked by gratitude and togetherness, will prevail in the cosmos.

Stay tuned to discover more about these celestial celebrations as they unfold!