Visiting JAXA: What Space Food Taught Me About Earth

Introduction

When you hear the word “space food,” you might think of freeze-dried meals or something only astronauts eat. But during my visit to the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), I learned that space food is about more than survival. It is about humanity, design, and even hope.

In this post, I’ll share insights from the Space Dome exhibition at JAXA Tsukuba, including the “Kibo” science module replica and real examples of Japanese space food.

You’ll discover how these meals are carefully engineered for zero gravity, how taste changes in orbit, and why these developments might hold clues to better living on Earth.

I created this video and article to explore the intersection of food, science, and life beyond our planet. It is a connection that speaks to all of us.

Highlights from the Visit

Here are some of the key experiences and takeaways from my day at JAXA:

・Seeing Koji Murofushi, Olympic gold medalist and Japan’s Sports Commissioner, visiting JAXA. His presence showed how relevant space is today.

・Walking through the Space Dome, a timeline of Japan’s achievements in space exploration.

・Experiencing the “Kibo” module, a replica of the science lab used on the ISS, and learning how it’s designed for life in zero gravity.

・Discovering how space food is developed not just for nutrition but also for comfort, routine, and human connection.

・Learning how flavors change in space.

Insights from the Tour

JAXA and the Present of Space

Standing in front of the JAXA building, I realized that space exploration isn’t just a futuristic idea. It is part of our lives today.

When someone like Koji Murofushi visits as part of his official role, it shows that space is something we should all pay attention to.

Inside “Kibo,” the Science Module

The “Kibo” module is a carefully designed lab for scientific experiments on the ISS.

In zero gravity, even orientation is a challenge, so handrails and lighting are strategically placed to help astronauts stay safe.

Everything in the module is built with intention and purpose.

Understanding Space Food

Space food is far more than just “fuel.”

Packaging, moisture content, and ease of chewing are all thoughtfully engineered.

How Taste Changes in Space

The goal is to support not only physical health but also emotional comfort and the sense of routine.

In space, fluids shift toward the head, which can dull the sense of taste.

Meals are often made with stronger seasoning to compensate.

But when I tried space curry and rice balls, I found them surprisingly mild. Taste really is personal.

What We Can Learn for Earth

The most powerful takeaway for me was how much humanity is packed into these small meals.

Space food reflects care, adaptability, and the effort to create comfort in extreme environments.

These are values we need just as much on Earth.

Reflections & Takeaways

This visit was not only about space. It made me think more deeply about life here on Earth.

Meals made for space are built with incredible thought and care.

And maybe, that is something we need more of in our everyday lives.

If there is one message I took home, it is this.

Space is not just far away. It shows us who we are and what we value.

Watch the Full Video on YouTube

See the full story, including behind-the-scenes footage, Koji Murofushi’s surprise appearance, and real space food displays.

Let me know your thoughts in the comments.

And if you enjoyed this post, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more space and food stories.