Bigelow Expandable Activity Module
Full-scale mock-up of BEAM at Johnson Space Center | |
| Module statistics | |
|---|---|
| COSPAR ID | 2016-024A |
| Launch date | April 8, 2016, 20:43:31 UTC |
| Launch vehicle | Falcon 9 Full Thrust (SpaceX CRS-8) |
| Berthed | April 16, 2016, 09:36 UTC Tranquility aft |
| Mass | 1,413 kg (3,115 lb) |
| Length | 4.01 m (13.2 ft) |
| Diameter | 3.23 m (10.6 ft) |
| Pressurised volume | 16.0 m3 (570 cu ft) |
The Bigelow Expandable Activity Module (BEAM) is an experimental expandable space station module developed by Bigelow Aerospace under contract with NASA. It was designed for testing as a temporary module on the International Space Station (ISS) beginning in 2016. BEAM arrived at the ISS on April 10, 2016, was berthed to the station on April 16, and was expanded and pressurized on May 28. Originally planned as a two-year test, the module has exceeded expectations and as of 2025, remains in use for additional cargo storage. Following Bigelow Aerospace's suspension of business operations in 2020, ownership of BEAM transferred to NASA.