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Doha Airport Built a Mars Lounge and I Accidentally Believed the Hype
By Syed John
A transit lounge simulates Martian gravity to keep elite travelers busy—and ready for future colonization deals.
Qatar's Hamad Airport opened a lounge that simulates Mars gravity using bungee rigs and VR headsets. Executives take meetings while bouncing lightly, pitching off-world mining startups. It's equal parts absurd and visionary.
I tried it and laughed until I realized the lounge doubles as a soft power play. Qatar wants to be the hospitality partner for whoever colonizes Mars first. Hosting zero-g brainstorming sessions is branding genius.
Travel has always been about status. Now it's about pretending you signed a contract on another planet. I'm rolling my eyes—but I'm also booking another layover.