Nasa is set to expand the International Space Station with an inflatable module made by a private company.

Bigelow Aerospace is producing the new module for $17.8 million, which in comparison to most Nasa projects is remarkably cheap.

The exact specification of the module has not been announced, but it is thought to be similar to the BA 330 prototypes which are already orbiting Earth.

It is also expected that SpaceX will help Bigelow to launch the module into space - the two already have a launch scheduled for 2015.

Nasa said:

"The Bigelow Expandable Activity Module will demonstrate the benefits of this space habitat technology for future exploration and commercial space endeavors."

The full details of the expansion will be announced on Wednesday, Nasa said. Images of Bigelow Aerospace's modules on its websites depict a live-work space rather than a science lab, though it is unclear if this will reflect the final design.

"This partnership agreement for the use of expandable habitats represents a step forward in cutting-edge technology that can allow humans to thrive in space safely and affordably, and heralds important progress in U.S. commercial space innovation."

Above: Deputy Administrator Lori Garver of NASA is given a tour of the Bigelow Aerospace facilities by the company's President Robert Bigelow February 4, 2011 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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Nasa's Next Space Station Project Is Inflatable