The proposed concept of a future space station utilizes inflatable vessel technology. Inflatables have the advantage of providing a light weight compact structure at launch which becomes a considerably larger living quarters when inflated in space.

Recurrently, this approach is suggested as an inexpensive way of constructing lunar bases, Mars mission modules, and space station compartments. The December 1962 issue of Popular Science featured the concept on its cover. Notice, the thruster firing on the perimeter of the "inner-tube" space station. The thrust would impart a rotating moment to the configuration to induce artificial gravity.