Bigelow Aerospace
Bigelow Aerospace is a Las Vegas, Nevada space technology start-up company that is pioneering work on expandable space station modules.
An expandable module is a space structure that has a flexible outer shell, allowing conservation of diameter for launch. Once in orbit, the module is inflated, allowing greater work, play, and living area for astronauts. Expandable modules initially were proposed and designed by the United States National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) under the Transhab program. After cancellation of the Transhab program, Bigelow Aerospace entered into three Space Act agreements whereby Bigelow Aerospace is the sole commercializer of several of NASA's key expandable module technologies.
The company has announced development of a family of prototype and production space station modules, including: the SpaceX Falcon V rocket. Bigelow Aerospace has contracted to launch as many as 6 Genesis Pathfinder modules between 2006 and 2008 at intervals of 7 to 8 months on the Kosmotras Dnepr rocket, a derivative of the Soviet ICBM named SS-18 ("Satan") by NATO. The larger Nautilus module is planned to launch in 2008.
Expected uses for Bigelow Aerospace's expandable modules include microgravity research and development, space manufacturing, and space tourism, such as providing orbital hotel accommodations. Expandable modules also may be used as components in spaceships for Moon or Mars manned missions. The company plans to profit by selling Nautilus modules for $100 million.
Bigelow Aerospace was founded by Robert Bigelow and is funded by the fortune Bigelow gained through owning the hotelier Space Review article (July 19, 2004)
