In an extraordinary fusion of tradition and innovation, a unique Hungarian delicacy—Stühmer’s Moment Korfu chocolate—has received NASA’s approval to accompany Hungarian astronaut Tibor Kapu on his upcoming mission to the International Space Station (ISS).
This initiative is part of the HUNOR Hungarian Astronaut Programme, which began its collaboration with Stühmer Ltd in April 2024. Following rigorous discussions and evaluations, Stühmer officially joined the Hungarian space mission as a sponsor, aiming to introduce a piece of Hungary into outer space.
‘When the idea of sending chocolate to space first arose, it seemed an almost impossible challenge. NASA’s stringent requirements meant the chocolate had to withstand the unique conditions of space,’ Stühmer Ltd’s Head of Quality Management Éva Mazurka said.
To overcome these challenges, the Stühmer team collaborated with the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE) to develop a chocolate suitable for space. Through rapid research and partial in-house development, they successfully created a product capable of enduring the extreme environment of space—resistant to pressure differences, zero gravity, and temperature fluctuations. The foundation of this innovation is Stühmer’s traditional Korfu slice, chosen for its composition and texture, which ensure resilience in the face of space’s harsh conditions.
Mission manager of the HUNOR programme Norbert Juhos emphasized the significance of including Hungarian food in the mission. ‘One of the most exciting aspects of this journey is not only conducting scientific experiments but also carrying a small taste of Hungarian uniqueness alongside personal items,’ he stated.
Astronaut Tibor Kapu, currently in Houston for mission-specific training for the Axiom-4 mission with his backup Gyula Cserényi, echoed this sentiment. ‘This product is not just a delicious treat. It symbolizes the meeting of Hungarian innovation, tradition, and modern technology,’ Kapu shared from the training centre.
Hungary’s first astronaut, Bertalan Farkas, who has personally supported Kapu and Cserényi during their preparation, also praised the initiative. He highlighted the chocolate as a testament to Hungarian ingenuity and perseverance.
Péter Csóll, owner and managing director of Stühmer Ltd, expressed pride in the achievement. ‘We are honoured that Stühmer can send a small piece of Hungary into space. This project is a triumph of Hungarian creativity, innovation, and tradition,’ he declared.
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