Fried chicken in orbit: Chinese astronauts spice up Tiangong space station meals

Orbiting Oven: Chinese Astronauts Cook Fried Chicken on Tiangong Space Station

In a culinary feat that might redefine space cuisine, Chinese astronauts aboard the Tiangong space station have been spotted indulging in a rather terrestrial delight: fried chicken wings. The China National Space Administration (CNSA) released footage showcasing the innovative use of a small oven, turning the once-unimaginable into a mouthwatering reality among the stars. This isn't just about satisfying cravings; it's a testament to the evolving capabilities and comfort levels of long-duration space missions.

A Taste of Home, Millions of Miles Away

The process, as captured in the viral video, involves carefully placing marinated chicken pieces into specialized containers. These containers are then secured onto a tray designed to keep the food in place within the zero-gravity environment. Once loaded into the compact oven, the magic happens, transforming raw ingredients into what appears to be perfectly roasted, savory chicken wings. The astronauts have also been seen preparing what looks like rehydrated beef, further expanding the menu options available beyond pre-packaged meals.

Beyond the Culinary Frontier

This gastronomic advancement has, understandably, sparked considerable buzz. On Chinese social media, one user humorously quipped, “Wow, the International Space Station next door is still eating something that causes diarrhea, and we've already reached the point of eating kebabs!” This lighthearted jab highlights the perceived leap in comfort and sophistication between different space programs. However, the culinary experiments on Tiangong are just one facet of China's ambitious space agenda. Future plans include a range of scientific endeavors, such as in-orbit gardening, practicing Tai Chi in microgravity, and exploring the artistic expressions of space poetry.

China's Expanding Cosmic Footprint

The fried chicken revelation coincides with broader advancements in China's space program. Recently, scientists discovered a novel bacterial strain on the Tiangong station, remarkably adapted to the harsh conditions of microgravity and radiation, hinting at the potential for unique biological discoveries in space. Beyond the station, China is pushing boundaries with a prototype railgun designed for launching astronauts, a radical departure from traditional rocket propulsion. Furthermore, the nation is solidifying its long-term vision with detailed plans for a lunar base, the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS). Demonstrative videos depict a comprehensive mission architecture, including sample return missions, landers, rovers, and orbital support satellites, aligning with upcoming Chang'e missions slated for launch this month and in 2027. These efforts collectively aim to establish a foundational ILRS model by 2028.

Space Food: A Comparative Look

The development on Tiangong offers a stark contrast to some of the ongoing narratives from the ISS. While NASA astronauts have recently been noted for finding a lost tomato eight months after harvest, and their life support systems achieve remarkable water recovery rates (98%), the idea of freshly cooked, seemingly gourmet meals in orbit marks a distinct progression. This focus on astronaut well-being and a more diverse, appetizing diet is crucial for maintaining morale and physical health during extended periods away from Earth.