Astronauts to enjoy out-of-this world coffee with ‘ISSpresso machine’

Astronauts on board the International Space Station will soon be getting an espresso machine. Italian coffee brand Lavazza, along with specialist aerospace engineering company Argotec, have developed the first capsule-based espresso system to be used in orbit. It will “work in the extremes of space” to deliver authentic Italian espresso. The plastic tube that would carry water inside a normal Earth-sufficient machine has been replaced with a special steel tube designed to withstand pressure of more than 400 bar.

Our aerospace engineers have designed a new-concept coffeemaker, which is safe for the astronauts and able to function in microgravity conditions, also thanks to Lavazza’s experience as a leader in capsule extraction systems.

David Avino, managing director of Argotec

The ISSpresso will create a corner cafe aboard the ISS, a venue for getting together, chatting and relaxing. It can also make a caffe lungo and hot beverages, such as tea, infusions and broth, so that food can be rehydrated. Air Force Captain Samantha Cristoforetti, who will become the first Italian woman to go into space later this year, will also become the first astronaut in history to drink an authentic Italian espresso in orbit.

Science espresso