Astronauts might get inflatable floating home in space

Astronauts might get an inflatable floating home in space.

It is a balloon-like capsule called the Bigelow Expandable Activity Module (BEAM).

NASA has teamed up with private company Bigelow Aerospace to build the module.

It can be squeezed into a tube and sent into space where it can be inflated.

Astronauts currently live in an aluminum module.

The newer one, BEAM, has more room and is less costly.

It is to be tested for two years at the International Space Station.

The first capsule is due for launch in 2015.

It might take two years to see how it copes with conditions like radiation and temperature changes.

This new technology might be a way to enable astronauts to stay longer in space.

Scientists expect BEAM might be used as a space lab, a moon exploration station, or a space travel destination.