Space station to add inflatable room
DOI: 10.1063/PT.5.029720
New Scientist : The astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS) are about to get a new room. An inflatable module is scheduled to be launched on 8 April as part of a SpaceX resupply mission. Made of a soft, foldable fabric, the Bigelow Expandable Activity Module (BEAM), developed by Bigelow Aerospace, will be packed into the trunk compartment of the Dragon spacecraft. Once in orbit, the fabric will be attached to node 3 of the ISS and allowed to expand. Over the next two years, BEAM will remain unoccupied but will be monitored for pressure and temperature, radiation protection, and potential deterioration from meteoroid or debris impacts. Astronauts will also periodically enter the module and inspect it. If the technology works, Bigelow hopes to use it for larger projects, such as a private space station or space hotel.
