"Sierra Space Successfully Tests Full-Scale Inflatable Module for Expandable Space Station"

Sierra Space has successfully conducted a burst test on a full-sized version of its Large Integrated Flexible Environment (LIFE) inflatable module, demonstrating that it exceeds NASA's safety requirements by bursting at a pressure of 77 psi, nearly 27% above the recommended level. The module is designed to fit within a five-meter payload fairing at launch and then inflate once in orbit, with plans for a larger version to fit into a seven-meter payload fairing. Sierra Space intends to use the module as part of the Orbital Reef commercial space station and has received an unfunded NASA Space Act Agreement to support its development. More tests, including work on the atmospheric barrier and flight hardware, are planned for this year.