BEAM

Bigelow Expandable Activity Module

 History of Expandable Modules
• Inflatable modules studied by NASA since 1960s
• TransHab proposed in 1997 for ISS - program canceled in 2000.
• Bigelow Aerospace (1999) - patent rights for TransHab
• Genesis I launched in in 2006 – still holds pressure today
• Genesis II launched in 2007 – also successful
• BEAM is the next generation
•
 BEAM Objectives

• Increase technology level of expandable habitat technology

• Demonstrate launch and deployment, as well as folding and
packing techniques
• Determine radiation protection capability
• Demonstrate design performance such as thermal, structural,
mechanical durability, long-term leak performance, etc.
BEAM
 BEAM Timeline

• Launched to ISS aboard SpaceX’s Dragon

on April 8, 2016
• First attempt at inflation on May 26,
2016 – halted
• Full inflation on May 29, 2016
• Astronaut Jeff Williams entered module
on June 6, 2016 to begin testing
• Two year testing program planned
 PBL Idea
• Designing inflatable structures for use on Mars
• Most efficient shape
• Best material for Mars conditions (storms, radiation, wind,
etc.)
• Growing vegetables –lighting, temp, etc.
• Opaque vs. transparent – temperature, etc.
• Weather resistant ability of inflatable device
• Special considerations for bundling
• Cost
 References

https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2016/05/iss-inflatable-module-beam-
expansion/
http://www.nasa.gov/feature/astronaut-s-first-steps-into-beam-will-
expand-the-frontiers-of-habitats-for-space
http://www.bigelowaerospace.com/beam/