# Genesis I

> experimental space habitat, launched in 2006

**Wikidata**: [Q1009201](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1009201)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Genesis_I)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/genesis-i

Here’s the structured knowledge entry for **Genesis I**:

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## Summary  
Genesis I is an experimental space habitat launched in 2006 by Bigelow Aerospace. It was designed as a technology demonstrator for inflatable space modules, aiming to test their viability for future permanent settlements in orbit. The module remains operational in low Earth orbit as of its last confirmed status.

## Key Facts  
- **Launched**: July 12, 2006, at 14:53:36 UTC from Dombarovsky, Russia.  
- **Launch vehicle**: Dnepr, a converted Soviet ICBM operated by ISC Kosmotras.  
- **Mass**: 1,360 kg (2,998 lbs).  
- **Dimensions**: 4.4 meters (14.4 ft) long, 2.54 meters (8.3 ft) in diameter.  
- **Volume**: 11.5 cubic meters (406 cubic feet).  
- **Operator/Manufacturer**: Bigelow Aerospace, a private U.S. space company.  
- **Orbit**: Low Earth orbit (LEO).  
- **COSPAR/NSSDCA ID**: 2006-029A.  
- **Purpose**: Demonstrated inflatable habitat technology for future space settlements.  

## FAQs  
### Q: What was the purpose of Genesis I?  
A: Genesis I tested the feasibility of inflatable space habitats, which could later support long-term human habitation or commercial use in orbit.  

### Q: Is Genesis I still in orbit?  
A: Yes, as of its last confirmed status, Genesis I remains operational in low Earth orbit, though its exact current condition is unclear.  

### Q: Who built and launched Genesis I?  
A: Bigelow Aerospace designed and manufactured Genesis I, while ISC Kosmotras launched it aboard a Dnepr rocket from Russia.  

## Why It Matters  
Genesis I marked a significant step toward commercializing space habitats by proving the durability and functionality of inflatable modules. Unlike traditional rigid structures, inflatable habitats offer greater volume-to-mass ratios, making them cost-effective for future space stations or lunar/Mars bases. Its success paved the way for later prototypes like Genesis II and contributed to NASA’s interest in inflatable technology, exemplified by the BEAM module on the ISS. By demonstrating that private companies could develop and deploy such systems, Genesis I helped expand the possibilities for space exploration and commercialization.

## Notable For  
- **First privately funded inflatable space habitat**.  
- **Demonstrated long-term survivability** of expandable modules in orbit.  
- **Pioneered Bigelow Aerospace’s technology**, later influencing NASA’s BEAM module.  

## Body  
### Launch and Mission  
- Launched on **July 12, 2006**, from **Dombarovsky Cosmodrome**, Russia.  
- Deployed via **Dnepr rocket**, a repurposed SS-18 Satan ICBM.  
- Primary mission: Validate inflatable module performance in microgravity.  

### Design and Specifications  
- **Structure**: Inflatable, multi-layer fabric hull with rigid components.  
- **Dimensions**: 4.4 m length, 2.54 m diameter (expanded).  
- **Mass**: 1,360 kg.  
- **Volume**: 11.5 m³ (expandable design allowed more space than rigid counterparts).  

### Operational Legacy  
- **Confirmed functional** years beyond its expected lifespan.  
- **Data collected** informed the design of **Genesis II** (2007) and Bigelow’s **BA 330** concept.  
- **Proved commercial viability** of private space habitats.  

### Technical Classifications  
- **Instance of**: Space habitat, technology demonstration spacecraft.  
- **Related systems**: NASA’s BEAM module, Bigelow’s B330 (planned).  

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## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
3. [Source](https://web.archive.org/web/20141024093802/http://bigelowaerospace.com/genesis-1-specs.php)
4. [Source](http://www.nbcnews.com/id/18142397)