"Inflatable Space Habitats: A Journey Through Time and Beyond"

Sierra Space's prototype inflatable space station module, the Large Integrated Flexible Environment (LIFE) module, recently exploded during a test, demonstrating the potential of inflatable space habitats. This technology has a long history, with NASA's TransHab concept and Bigelow Aerospace's Genesis modules paving the way. Sierra Space is now leading the development of expandable structures, with plans for LIFE 2.0 and LIFE 3.0 modules, and is collaborating with Blue Origin on the Orbital Reef commercial space station, aiming to have it operational by 2030.