Genesis II: an Outer Space Resort/Convention Center

Abstract

For purposes of promoting creative and innovative thinking, intellectual inquiry and exploration, students in a HospitalityMarketing and Sales class were challenged to consider the feasibility of a Resort/Convention Center in outer space. As GENESIS II was conceived, students were required to participate in a multidiscipli nary approach to learning as they researched subject matter not only in their own field of expertise but in technological, scientific, cultural, and agricultural ones as well. A marketing plan was developed and models constructed which depicted this 2000 suite cosmic facility as occupying part of Space Settlement One, a project designed by the University of New Mexico, in conjunction with NASA. A space vehicle, Galaxian International, would transport as many as 300 dignitaries, scien tists, researchers, and other elite clientele from selected target areas around the world to this extraterrestrial environment. Computerized language translators would facilitate global and international interchanges in this holistic environment and would ultimately promote universal peace. A fingerprint registration system would permit access to suites all of which afforded space views and holograms. A worldwide computerized banking system would enable visitors to purchase gallactic novelties, to visit the science and cultural center, to take space tours in pods, and to enjoy international cuisine and entertainment. A budget was proposed and funding planned via grants, private industry, and the sale of electricity to Earth. Convention and meeting rooms, such as the Starlight and Galaxy were promoted in convention brochures for distribution to travel agents and meeting planners. Promotional materials also contained suggestions for space souvenirs, collateral items, and advertising messages. The students who conceived GENESIS II were committed to the project as they realized that they could be among the first pioneers to enjoy the solar ambiance in this futuristic resort. GENESIS II received statewide media attention.