Michelin-starred meal in the stratosphere: scale development of luxury dining on the edge of space

Abstract

Purpose – Luxury dining is offered over the curvature of the Earth. Deep-pocket dinners will be served by gourmet dining at an altitude of 100,000 feet. Eating a luxury-level meal while gazing out at the curvature of the Earth is about to become a reality, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the luxury dining and space industries. The study responds to a timely call to investigate deep-pocket dinners’ perceived space dining experience. Design/methodology/approach – This study developed a multidimensional scale via mixed methodology, incorporating diner reviews, interviews and surveys. The dimensions of the newly developed scale are specified through exploratory factor analysis, confirmed through confirmatory factor analysis and nomological validity is ensured. Findings – Four dimensions of the perceived space dining experience scale were explored via multi-analytic processes, including acute altitude sickness, artificial intelligence failure and cyber threats, mood states (euphoria followed by depression) and sensory perception of flavor. Originality/value – This high-end dining experience features innovative scientific experiments, the complex integration of agentic and generative artificial intelligence, and is likely to provide a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience. The newly developed scale comprehends diners’ perceptions at the edge of space.