Future spacecraft with a limited capacity will not allow enough space for dedicated sleeping compartments, which will result in inconveniences and raises health concerns. Without privacy, astronauts do not have a personal place to tend to their mental and personal needs. Microgravity environments cause discomfort in the body and improper ventilation risks suffocation from carbon dioxide. Additionally, heavy materials for the sleeping compartments are a burden to the cost, as well as the potency of the spacecraft. In either long or short-term travel, these factors can negatively impact the astronauts’ efficiency and productivity in space.

The solution to the design challenge uses a two-part construction. The base of the sleeping compartment is created by joining the modified cargo transfer bags using double-sided zippers and existing straps. The top housing is a custom design inspired by origami and can be folded and stowed into cargo transfer bags when not deployed. The design is lightweight, modular, and easily deployable.