Astronauts' 3D-Printed Space Coffee Cups Resemble Urinals

Drinking coffee in space isn’t as simple as pressing a button. Without gravity, liquids float, oils don’t rise, and brewing a proper espresso—complete with its prized crema—is nearly impossible. For years, astronauts have had to settle for instant coffee or specially packaged drinks. But now, researchers may have found a clever workaround: a 3D-printed coffee cup that looks strange but works exceptionally well in orbit.

Six 3D-printed coffee cups, built by engineers at Portland State University, will launch to the International Space Station this month aboard a SpaceX rocket. Their unusual, urinal-like shape is key to helping astronauts enjoy proper espresso, even in zero gravity.

Why Can’t Astronauts Just Drink Normal Coffee in Space?

In the microgravity environment of the ISS, fluids don’t pour or settle the way they do on Earth. Without gravity, coffee doesn’t flow into a cup, steam doesn’t rise predictably, and the delicate crema that gives espresso its flavor and texture can’t form naturally. Traditional brewing methods fail, and astronauts usually get their caffeine from instant mixes or pre-packaged pouches.

The Science Behind the “Urinal” Cup Design

The odd, saddle-shaped coffee cup—reminiscent of a urinal—was developed by researchers at Portland State University’s Maseeh College of Engineering and Computer Science. Its unique geometry uses surface tension and wetting behavior to guide liquid movement without any moving parts or pumps. When an astronaut sips, the cup’s shape directs the coffee toward the lip using capillary action, allowing controlled flow and even preserving the crema on espresso.

How the 3D-Printed Cup Makes Better Space Espresso

The six custom cups were fabricated using 3D printing technology and are designed specifically for espresso. They don’t require power or machinery—just the natural behavior of fluids interacting with the cup’s contoured interior. By positioning the opening correctly and using the right sip angle, astronauts can enjoy a beverage that closely mimics the terrestrial espresso experience, complete with crema and controlled flow. The design also works for other beverages, but espresso was the main focus due to its reliance on crema.

Launch and Use Aboard the ISS

This month, SpaceX will carry the six coffee cups to the International Space Station, where astronauts will test them in real microgravity conditions. The project demonstrates how innovative design and engineering can solve everyday problems in space—even something as seemingly simple as drinking coffee.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do the space coffee cups look like?

The space coffee cups have an unusual, saddle-shaped design that resembles a urinal. This shape is intentional and helps control the flow of liquid via surface tension in zero gravity.

Why are the coffee cups shaped like that?

The unique shape uses capillary action and fluid dynamics to guide coffee to the drinker’s mouth without gravity. It allows for better control when sipping and helps preserve crema in espresso.

How many coffee cups are being sent to space?

Six 3D-printed coffee cups are being launched to the International Space Station this month via a SpaceX rocket.

Who made the space coffee cups?

The coffee cups were designed and 3D-printed by researchers at Portland State University’s Maseeh College of Engineering and Computer Science.

Do the cups work for other drinks besides coffee?

Yes, the cup design can be used for other beverages, but it was optimized for espresso to help replicate crema and controlled sipping in microgravity.

When will astronauts start using the cups?

The cups are scheduled to arrive at the International Space Station this month and will be tested by astronauts in the coming weeks.

Recommended FrontStreet Coffee Beans for Espresso

For espresso lovers curious how crema behaves in space, try FrontStreet Coffee’s Ethiopia Humbera SOE for its bright berry and floral notes, or Brazil Queen Manor SOE for its balanced chocolate and nut profile. Both showcase the kind of distinct flavors and body that make espresso special—including its crema. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.