The break beam detector is supposed to keep people and their tricycles from being crushed if they happen to be in the way while the door is closing. But it only works if the person or thing breaks ...

Once the checks and installations were complete, Williams left the module and closed the hatch. ISS crew will enter BEAM a few more times through Wednesday to check sensors and gear inside.

The BBA-4000 is a solar powered wireless infrared break beam system that is simple to install and requires no wiring. The break beam sensors are powered by lithium ion batteries that are recharged ...

BEAM is not destined to be used long-term on the station; it's merely an experiment. Astronauts are scheduled to enter the BEAM several more times this week to deploy additional sensors.

After snags, BEAM space module expands to its full volume – like a bag of popcorn by Alan Boyle on May 28, 2016 at 3:24 pm Share ...