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Adding local short description: "Experimental inflatable space station module", overriding Wikidata description "experimental expandable space station module" (Shortdesc helper) |
Carroll D. (talk | contribs) m →Deployment and status: Added the year for clarification. |
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NASA noted in May 2017 that, after spending one year in space, the BEAM instrumentation had recorded "a few probable micrometeoroid debris impacts" but that the module's protective layers had resisted any penetration. Early results from monitors inside the module have shown that [[galactic cosmic radiation]] levels are comparable to those in the rest of the space station. Further testing will try to characterize whether the inflatable structure is any more resilient to radiation than traditional metal modules.<ref name="nasa20170526"/><ref name="arstech20170528"/>
In October 2017, it was announced that the module would stay attached to the ISS until 2020, with options for two further one-year extensions. The module will be used to store up to 130 cargo transfer bags in an effort to free up additional space aboard the station.<ref name="arstech20171003"/> The ISS crew began work in November 2017 to prepare BEAM for use as storage space.<ref name="nasa20171121">{{cite web |url=https://blogs.nasa.gov/spacestation/2017/11/21/beam-work-and-vision-checks-for-crew-today/ |title=BEAM Work and Vision Checks for Crew Today |publisher=NASA |first=Mark |last=Garcia |date=November 21, 2017 |accessdate=January 29, 2018}}</ref>
In July 2019, an engineering assessment certified BEAM's ability to remain attached to the station until 2028, as it has exceeded performance expectations and become a core cargo storage module on the volume-constrained station. A contract extension will still be required to allow BEAM to serve out its extended operational lifetime.<ref name="sn20190812"/>
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