Groundbreaking Space Cookie Exhibit Debuts at National Air and Space Museum

The famous DoubleTree by Hilton chocolate chip cookie, which made history as the first food baked in space, has now touched down at the National Air and Space Museum's Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia.

Back in 2019, DoubleTree by Hilton teamed up with Zero G Kitchen and Nanoracks to pioneer the baking of its renowned cookie aboard the International Space Station, marking a significant milestone as the first hospitality company to delve into space research. This groundbreaking experiment aimed to bring the comforts of home to astronauts on long-duration space missions by introducing familiar tastes from Earth, and following a successful mission, the cookie made its return journey to Earth in 2020 for further analysis by food scientists.

Now, the space-traveled cookie takes center stage at the Udvar-Hazy Center, housed in a specially designed airtight exhibition box, symbolizing the fusion of hospitality and scientific progress. It will soon become a highlight of the museum's upcoming exhibit, "At Home in Space," slated to open in Washington, D.C., in 2026.

While exploring the museum, visitors can also indulge in original DoubleTree chocolate chip cookies at various DoubleTree by Hilton locations across the United States, including the conveniently located DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Sterling – Dulles Airport, just a stone's throw away from the museum.

Dr. Jennifer K. Levasseur, curator at the museum, underscored the importance of innovations like space baking in enhancing the experience of extended space journeys, making them more enjoyable and sustainable.

Shawn McAteer, brand leader of DoubleTree by Hilton, highlighted the brand's longstanding commitment to hospitality and innovation, pointing out Hilton's historical fascination with space exploration.