The total solar eclipse of April 8 had millions of folks across the US staring at the sky, hoping to catch a glimpse of the rare phenomenon. In honor of the event, vehicle manufacturer Taxa Outdoors has unveiled a limited edition of their iconic Mantis travel trailer, the most popular and most expansive overland vehicle in their lineup. It's dubbed the Dark Sky Mantis and comes with a sleek, dark color scheme and a series of overland upgrades.
The Houston-based company specializes in creating travel trailers designed to support terrestrial outdoor adventures, but they do so with knowledge and expertise derived from none other than NASA. That's because Garrett Finney, the head honcho of the outfit, has previously worked as a senior architect at the space agency's Habitability Design Center at Johnson Space Center in Houston.
Considering its NASA heritage, the company couldn't resist offering a limited-edition human habitat inspired by the once-in-a-lifetime celestial phenomenon. And just like the solar eclipse attracted hordes of people, Taxa hopes to draw in globetrotters and outdoor enthusiasts with its special offering.
"TAXA Outdoors decided to launch a collab with the most popular celeb of the spring season (move over T-Swift & Kelce… the eclipse has the spotlight now)," the company tells us. "And just like the eclipse, it won't be around for long – pre-orders for the Dark Sky Mantis will sunset in just one week."
As mentioned, the Dark Sky Mantis is based on the popular Mantis travel trailer, an off-road capable model built to allow adventurers the freedom of off-grid living and the possibility to immerse themselves in their natural environments. It measures 19 feet (5.8 meters) in length and can comfortably accommodate four adults, which makes it perfect for family adventures.
Photo: Taxa Outdoors
What differentiates the limited-edition model from the standard Mantis is the Dark Sky colorway with custom matte wrap, special graphics on the exterior panels, and matching dark wheels. Moreover, the eclipse-inspired rig comes with all the overland upgrades offered by the company, including axle-less suspension, increased ground clearance, rugged all-terrain tires, and articulating Lock 'N' Roll hitch.
The rest of the spec sheet is similar to that of the 2024 Mantis Overland, which boasts a cleverly designed layout with two sleeping/lounging zones at the front and rear, a highly functional central kitchen, generous storage, and practical bathroom facilities. Moreover, a pop-up roof enhances the spaciousness inside. To maximize the functionality of the interior, the full-sized bed can easily convert to a dining or lounging space, while the bunk bed system can drop into a couch.
The galley kitchen is well kitted out for meal prep on the road, with durable baltic birchwood cabinetry and high-pressure laminate countertop, plus a slew of appliances that facilitate cooking for the whole family, ranging from a sink to a two burner stove and cooler. For increased comfort and convenience, the Mantis comes standard with an 8,000 BTU air conditioner, furnace, and hot water system.
The limited-edition Dark Sky Mantis can be pre-ordered this week only, between April 8 and 15, so hurry up if you want to enjoy the beautiful outdoors in a travel trailer built to honor once-in-a-lifetime moments. Taxa Outdoors doesn't mention a price for the limited edition model, but the standard Mantis trailer starts at $45,750.
After spending a few years as a copy editor, Ancuta decided to put down the eraser and pick up the writer's pencil. Her favorites subjects are unusual car designs, travel trailers and everything related to the great outdoors. Full profile
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