posted 01-05-2016 12:56 AM               

Bigelow Expandable Activity Module (BEAM) patch

In 2012, NASA contracted Bigelow Aerospace to provide a Bigelow Expandable Activity Module (BEAM) for a technology demonstration on the International Space Station. The BEAM is scheduled to launch aboard SpaceX's eighth resupply mission to the space station.

After BEAM is berthed to the Tranquility node, the station's crew will activate a pressurization system to expand the structure to its full size using air stored within the packed module. Astronauts will periodically enter the BEAM to gather performance data and perform inspections. Following the test period, the module will be released from the space station, burning up on re-entry.

The BEAM patch symbolizes the joint efforts of Bigelow Aerospace with NASA and SpaceX.

Shown is the SpaceX Dragon capsule heading towards the station with the BEAM module inside the non-pressurized cargo hold [trunk]. In the top left corner, a larger view of the BEAM module is shown. The background consists of a constellation, which forms the Bigelow Aerospace Alien Head logo.

posted 01-05-2016 01:05 AM               

Sneak peak of the goodies that will be given out at the SpaceX CRS-8 launch.