When we think of inflatables, we usually picture the moon bounce or giant slides often seen at amusement parks and children's birthday parties. NASA has other plans for the inflatable technology though, commissioning a $17.8 million inflatable space habitat.

A contract between Bigelow Airspace and NASA was just signed for the construction of an inflatable and expandable module for the International Space Station. Bigelow Airspace was chosen because they already have a few prototype habitats orbiting earth.

Last year Bigelow Airspace partnered up with SpaceX to launch its BA 330, seen above, sometime in 2015. It is unsure at this time if NASA will launch the new expansion module or if SpaceX will be handling the delivery. Further details on the new ISS expansion are due this Wednesday, and I will be covering the event, so stay tuned for more information.