SierraSpace blew up its inflatable space habitat to test how much pressure it could withstand. Named "LIFE" (Large Integrated Flexible Environment), it is composed of "soft materials" or woven fabrics that act like a rigid structure when inflated. The test focuses on Life's pressure shell, which is supposed to keep the habitat intact under any pressure.
This layer is made up of Vectran straps (the same material used on Mars rovers) that are "stronger than steel when inflated in orbit" and other high-strength fabrics.
With support from NASA, it pumped in more air than the recommended 60.8psi level until the entire thing exploded (the ending of the explosion begins at 5:55 in the video below).
The aerospace company is testing LIFE's durability in harsh space conditions and plans to conduct additional tests throughout the year to evaluate other parts of the structure.
If it can pass all tests, "LIFE" will be able to hitch a ride on space missions. Sierra Space says LIFE can be easily loaded into a rocket and expanded to "the size of a three-story apartment building." By combining multiple "life" module units together, a space park larger than the International Space Station can be formed for people to live and work.