Exploring Alcohol in Space: Science, Spirits, and the Future of Human Culture Beyond Earth
Dr. Tiffany Vora at the screening of the documentary Alcohol in Space
A Night of Science and Storytelling
What happens when one of humanity’s oldest traditions collides with the final frontier? That was the central question at a February screening of the documentary Alcohol in Space, where space enthusiasts, innovators, and future-focused thinkers gathered to explore the fascinating intersection of alcohol and space exploration.
Hosted by the nonprofit Explore Mars at the Circuit Launch robotics maker space in the heart of Silicon Valley, the event wasn’t just about whiskey aged on the ISS or champagne designed for microgravity (though those were certainly highlights!). It was a deep dive into the intersection of space science, culture, and human experience—how something as timeless as alcohol offers insights into future economies, closed-loop life support, and even the psychology of long-duration space travel.
The Conversations That Flowed
I moderated a lively fireside chat with Chris Carberry (author of the book Alcohol in Space) and filmmaker Sam Burbank that kept the discussion flowing.
Why alcohol in space remains a taboo subject, especially for government space agencies.
What we do—and don’t—know about how alcohol affects astronauts psychologically and socially in extreme environments like Mars or deep-space missions.
How the rise of commercial space stations and space tourism might lead to the first-ever space bar.
The discussion sparked curiosity and debate, reminding us that as we push toward Mars and beyond, we aren’t just taking technology with us—we’re bringing our humanity, culture, and traditions along for the journey. And perhaps, that includes a well-crafted drink.
Gratitude and Looking Ahead
Thanks so much to all the folks who braved an atmospheric river to join us! Thank you Circuit Launch, Dermot Mee, and Alex Dantas for sharing your beautiful event space with us! We are also deeply grateful to Alex Kearns of Citizens Private Bank for partnering with us on this event, and to Colleen McLeod Gardner and Casa Azul Spirits for bringing their hard seltzer to the event!
And don’t forget to pick up your copy of the book Alcohol in Space, and check out the film streaming on Amazon Prime!
More Photos from the Event
About Tiffany
Dr. Tiffany Vora speaks, writes, and advises on how to harness technology to build the best possible future(s). She is an expert in biotech, health, & innovation.
For a full list of topics and collaboration opportunities, visit Tiffany’s Work Together webpage.
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