BEAM Technology Demonstration

NASA’s Bigelow Expandable Activity Module demonstration tests expandable habitat technology aboard the International Space Station. BEAM launched on 8 April 2016, was robotically installed on the aft port of Tranquility on 16 April, expanded on 28 May, and first opened to crew entry on 6 June. Its compact launch configuration and expanded pressurized volume demonstrate a way to transport habitable structures using less rocket payload volume. The mission was extended in December 2017. By July 2026, NASA reported continued sensor maintenance and stowage operations inside BEAM, including replacement of sensor batteries. BEAM remains part of the ISS assembly as a hosted expandable module.