NASA-linked perfume recreates the ‘smell of space’
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A new perfume backed by a kickstarter campaign is inspired by NASA astronauts’ descriptions of the smell of space.
According to a Designboom feature, Eau de Space – developed by chemist and Omega Ingredients founder Steve Pearce – is a perfume based on the scent developed decades ago for astronauts in training to prepare them for extraterrestrial experiences beyond the atmosphere.
The original formula is based on reports from returned astronauts, who described the smell of space as “seared steak, raspberries and rum” and “a bitter kind of smell in addition to being smokey and burned … like a smell from a gun, right after you fire the shot”.
The formula for the scent has been a closely-guarded secret for years.
The scent developers partnered with leading perfumers to create “a fragrance that sparks curiosity while leading to an increased interest in Stem (science, technology, engineer, mathematics) students grades K-12”, according to the feature.
Pearce has hinted that the team’s next project will be to release a scent inspired by the smell of the moon…
Here’s a cool video release to promote the new fragrance…
Questions & Answers
Q.Who developed this new perfume designed to smell like space?
Who developed this new perfume designed to smell like space?
The perfume, Eau de Space, was developed by chemist Steve Pearce, who is also the founder of Omega Ingredients. He based it on a scent created decades ago for NASA astronauts in training.
Q.What does the perfume smell like, according to astronauts’ descriptions?
What does the perfume smell like, according to astronauts’ descriptions?
Astronauts described the smell of space as 'seared steak, raspberries and rum'. They also noted it had a 'bitter' and 'smokey and burned' quality, similar to a gun fired recently.
Q.What is the intended purpose of this space-inspired fragrance, beyond just being a perfume?
What is the intended purpose of this space-inspired fragrance, beyond just being a perfume?
The scent was created to spark curiosity and increase interest in STEM (science, technology, engineer, mathematics) subjects among K-12 students. It aims to engage young people with science.
Q.Will the developers release any other space-themed scents in the future?
Will the developers release any other space-themed scents in the future?
Steve Pearce has indicated that the team's next project will involve releasing a new scent. This upcoming fragrance is intended to be inspired by the distinct smell of the moon.
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