In the ever-evolving landscape of space exploration and commercialization, Sierra Space’s Large Integrated Flexible Environment (LIFE) habitat stands as a pioneering concept that will reshape how humans live and work in space.
LIFE launches on a conventional rocket and inflates on orbit. The first product in the roadmap, LIFE 1.0, is a large, three-story structure that is 27 feet in diameter. It can comfortably sleep four astronauts, with additional room for science experiments, exercise equipment, a medical center and Astro Garden® system, which can grow fresh produce for astronauts on long-duration space missions.
Volume: 10.6 m3
Length: 2m
Diameter: 3m
Small-Scale Test Article
Volume: 285 m3
Length: 6m
Diameter: 9m
5m Fairing
Key Capabilities
Volume: 600 m3
Length: 12m
Diameter: 9m
5m Fairing
Volume: 1440 m3
Length: 16.2m
Diameter: 11m
7m Fairing
Shared 2.0 - 3.0 Advancements
One of the most remarkable features of the LIFE habitat is its adaptability to accommodate a range of businesses, from in-space semiconductor manufacturing to pharmaceutical microgravity research. The habitat leverages the unique conditions of zero gravity, offering an optimal environment for experiments and processes that benefit from this distinct microgravity setting.
With substantial volume, power, and data capabilities, the habitat is primed for extended human habitation, both for low-Earth Orbit (LEO) missions and for the demanding challenges of long-duration voyages, such as Lunar and Mars surface habitation.
A testament to cutting-edge engineering, the LIFE habitat boasts an inflatable pressure shell composed of Vectran™ fabric weave, a material that becomes stronger than steel when inflated on-orbit. This innovative design ensures the safety and comfort of crew members, who can thrive within its three floors of living and working space.
The habitat’s unique features extend to an Astro Garden® where fresh produce can be cultivated, offering a sustainable space vegetable solution for extended missions.
The first product in this innovative space technology roadmap is LIFE 1.0. This large three-story structure that is 27 feet in diameter, launches aboard a conventional rocket and expands on-orbit into a multi-purpose space habitat.
LIFE habitat is more than just a physical construct; it represents a gateway to a multitude of possibilities for various industries.
One of the most remarkable features of the LIFE habitat is its adaptability to accommodate a range of businesses, from in-space semiconductor manufacturing to pharmaceutical microgravity research. The habitat leverages the unique conditions of zero gravity, offering an optimal environment for experiments and processes that benefit from this distinct microgravity setting.
With substantial volume, power, and data capabilities, the habitat is primed for extended human habitation, both for low-Earth Orbit (LEO) missions and for the demanding challenges of long-duration voyages, such as Lunar and Mars surface habitation.
Sierra Space’s stress tests on five, sub-scale units since 2022, surpassed NASA’s rigorous certification recommendations during “Ultimate Burst Pressure” and “Creep” testing. These achievements are paving the way for a full-scale Ultimate Burst Pressure test scheduled for 2023, further solidifying the habitat’s readiness for space.
Sierra Space’s LIFE habitat products will mark a paradigm shift in space habitation, enabling a range of industries to capitalize on the advantages of zero gravity. Future developments for LIFE 2.0 and LIFE 3.0 will see increased capabilities, efficiencies, connectivity, and sustainability.
As the habitat’s capabilities expand, its role in shaping the future of commercial space exploration becomes ever more pronounced, promising to open doors to uncharted realms of possibility.
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