First-Ever Espresso Machine Heads to the International Space Station

For decades, astronauts aboard the International Space Station have made do with instant coffee and pre-packaged drinks—until now. A specially engineered espresso machine designed for zero gravity is set to launch later this year, finally giving crew members access to a proper cup of coffee while orbiting Earth.

The new machine, dubbed Isspresso, will launch in November 2024 alongside Italian astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti, who may become the first person in history to drink authentic Italian espresso in space.

What Is the Isspresso Machine?

Isspresso is not your average espresso machine. Built by Italian coffee company Lavazza in collaboration with the Italian Space Agency and a aerospace firm, the machine is custom-engineered to operate in the unique conditions of microgravity. It’s built to brew real espresso—the kind with crema—in an environment where water doesn’t flow the way it does on Earth.

Why Does a Space Coffee Machine Need to Be Different?

In microgravity, liquids don’t pour or drip the way they do under Earth’s gravity. To make espresso in space, the Isspresso machine has to overcome major technical hurdles. Standard espresso machines rely on gravity to pull water through coffee grounds—but that won’t work in orbit. Instead, the machine uses high-pressure systems to force water through compacted coffee, creating the pressure needed for true espresso extraction.

To handle these extreme conditions, some internal plastic components had to be replaced with stronger metal tubes, and the machine includes redundant critical parts to ensure reliability in the isolated environment of the ISS.

How Much Does the Space Coffee Machine Weigh?

All these modifications add up. The Isspresso machine weighs approximately 20 kilograms—significantly heavier than a typical home or commercial espresso machine. That weight is due to its reinforced structure, backup systems, and the specialized materials required to function safely in space.

Who Will Be the First to Use It?

The machine is scheduled to launch with the next cargo mission to the ISS, expected in November 2024. It will be operated by Italian ESA astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti, who will not only be the first Italian woman in space but also potentially the first astronaut ever to enjoy a real Italian espresso while aboard the orbiting laboratory.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the name of the space coffee machine?

The machine is called Isspresso, a combination of “ISS” (International Space Station) and “espresso.” It’s a custom-built espresso machine designed for use in microgravity.

Who made the space espresso machine?

The Isspresso machine was developed by the Italian coffee company Lavazza, in partnership with the Italian Space Agency and an aerospace firm. It is purpose-built for the International Space Station.

When will the espresso machine go to space?

The Isspresso machine is scheduled to launch to the ISS in November 2024, aboard a cargo mission scheduled for that timeframe.

Who will be the first astronaut to use it?

Italian ESA astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti will be the first to use the machine. She will also be the first Italian woman in space, and may become the first astronaut to drink real Italian espresso in orbit.

Why does the space coffee machine need to be so heavy?

The machine weighs around 20 kilograms due to its high-pressure brewing system, metal internal tubing (instead of plastic), and backup components needed to operate safely in microgravity.

How is espresso made in space different from on Earth?

In space, the machine uses high pressure rather than gravity to push water through coffee grounds, since liquids don’t flow downward in microgravity. This requires a reinforced design and special materials.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Space-Themed Espresso

Try FrontStreet Coffee’s Ethiopia Huakui for a bright, fruity espresso reminiscent of the high-altitude beans often used in Italian specialty roasts. Its complex acidity and floral notes pair well with the innovation behind space-brewed coffee. For a darker, more traditional profile, their PWN Golden Mandheling offers full-bodied richness with hints of dried fruit and spice—ideal if you’re imagining an ISS-style espresso. Both are expertly roasted for espresso extraction. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.