Working and living in space is no longer just a distant dream, but a future reality. The question on everyone’s mind is what the next generation of space habitats will look like. Max Space, led by Aaron Kemmer and Maxim de Jong, is set to launch innovative expandable habitats in 2026.
These expandable habitats promise to be larger, stronger, and more versatile than any others before them. They are also cheaper and lighter than traditional solid structures. Despite their balloon-like appearance, they are resilient to the challenges of space.
Expandable habitats have a long history, with the TransHab project at NASA in the 1990s being a major milestone. The structures are not just big balloons – the real strength lies within the interior structure. The conventional “basket weave” technique has been the standard since TransHab, but De Jong had concerns about its predictability.
De Jong’s breakthrough came when he discovered Bernoulli’s principle, which had been documented 330 years ago. By forming an isotensoid shape out of cords, De Jong found a solution that was structurally strong, simple, and safe. This design allows for easy adjustments for different shapes and can compress to a thin pancake when not in use.
After years of development, Max Space is set to launch their expandable habitat in 2026. This mission will act as a proof of concept, paving the way for larger habitats in the future. These habitats will offer a wide range of internal components for various purposes, from farming to research.
As launch costs continue to decrease and demand for space volume rises, Max Space aims to provide a comprehensive solution for commercial space activities. They are poised to meet the growing needs of industries such as NASA, defense, tourism, and manufacturing in space. With their innovative approach to expandable habitats, Max Space is ready to revolutionize space habitation.