Peppers in Space!

NASA’s Chili Pepper Experiment on the ISS

In 2021, astronauts aboard the International Space Station became the first humans to grow and eat chili peppers in space. The experiment, called Plant Habitat-04, used Hatch green chilies — a New Mexico favorite — to test how plants grow in zero gravity.

The goal wasn’t just fun. Peppers are rich in vitamin C, provide fresh flavor, and lift morale on long missions. After months of careful growth, the astronauts harvested their chilies and celebrated with the first-ever space tacos — fajita beef, rehydrated veggies, and fresh chilies.

Their verdict? Out-of-this-world delicious.

The success of this spicy experiment shows peppers could be part of future missions to the Moon or Mars. If humanity leaves Earth, hot peppers are coming with us.