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NASA NTRS · 20260004134

Expanding Space with Inflatable Softgoods: Roadmap for In-Space Manufacturing of Resilient Space Structures

Doug Litteken
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Abstract

Overview of inflatable softgoods and their emerging role in enabling large, resilient space habitats and infrastructure. It highlights the advantages of inflatable systems, such as exceptional packing efficiency and scalable habitable volume, while also addressing challenges related to outfitting, complex material behavior, structural design, manufacturing precision, and testing limitations. Core architectural elements of crewed inflatable habitats are described, along with shell layer composition, structural interfaces, and examples of conceptual habitat configurations for transit, lunar, and surface applications. The presentation concludes by outlining key technology shortfalls, including structural health monitoring, ultra‑high‑strength materials, lifetime performance, and integration strategies, emphasizing the need for continued development to support future in‑space manufacturing and exploration missions.

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BibTeXRIS

Doug Litteken. 2026-05-19. Expanding Space with Inflatable Softgoods: Roadmap for In-Space Manufacturing of Resilient Space Structures. https://ntrs.nasa.gov/citations/20260004134

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