DURING this time, NASA is widely known as the United States space agency that brought humans to the Moon and explored Mars. However, behind these space missions, NASA also produces various innovations whose benefits are most felt on Earth. Starting from the extreme needs in space, these technologies then transformed into products that are used by millions of people every day.
Based on a search from the HowStuffWorks page, here are 10 NASA innovations that are now an important part of modern life.
1. Memory Foam
Table of Contents
- 1. Memory Foam
- 2. Anti-Corrosion Coating
- 3. ArterioVision: Astronomical Technology for Heart Disease Detection
- 4. Cochlear Implant
- 5. Scratch Resistant Glasses Lenses
- 6. Emulsified Zero-valent Iron
- 7. Insulin Pump for Diabetic Patient Astronauts
- 8.Rocket Separation Technology for Emergency Rescue
- 9. Charge-Coupled Device (CCD)
- 10. Water Filter for Astronauts
Memory foam was originally developed in the 1960s by aeronautical engineer Charles Yost to improve the safety of astronauts and airplane passengers. This material is designed to be able to absorb high pressure, then slowly return to its original shape.
Not only does it increase protection from impact, this foam has also been proven to distribute body weight evenly. Since being marketed commercially, memory foam has been used widely, from mattresses, sports helmets, shoe covers, to medical equipment to prevent pressure sores in patients.
2. Anti-Corrosion Coating
The rocket launch environment in coastal areas makes NASA equipment vulnerable to damage due to rust. To overcome this, NASA developed a protective coating made from zinc and potassium silicate which can significantly inhibit corrosion.
This technology was later adopted by the industry as a fast-drying, non-toxic and long-lasting steel coating. One of the most iconic applications was the coating of the inside of the Statue of Liberty in the 1980s to slow the process of deterioration.
3. ArterioVision: Astronomical Technology for Heart Disease Detection
Imaging software that NASA originally used to photograph planets and galaxies is now helping doctors detect heart disease. ArterioVision utilizes NASA image processing technology to noninvasively examine blood vessel wall thickness.
This technology allows early detection of atherosclerosis, so patients have a greater chance of preventing it through lifestyle changes before the condition worsens.
4. Cochlear Implant
Modern cochlear implants have their roots in NASA innovations in sensors and signal transmission. Developed by NASA engineer Adam Kissiah Jr., this technology converts sound into digital pulses that directly stimulate the auditory nerve.
To date, hundreds of thousands of people around the world have received cochlear implants, including those who were unable to hear from birth and patients who lost their hearing due to disease or injury.
5. Scratch Resistant Glasses Lenses
When plastic lenses replaced glass for safety reasons, a new problem emerged, namely that the glass used was easily scratched. NASA then developed an abrasion-resistant protective coating for astronaut helmet visors.
This technology was commercialized in the 1980s and is now standard in modern eyeglass lenses, making them much more durable and safe to use.
6. Emulsified Zero-valent Iron
NASA is facing serious problems due to toxic chemical waste such as trichloroethylene which pollutes the soil and groundwater around the launch site. Instead of digging up polluted soil, NASA developed an emulsified zero-valent iron solution that is capable of breaking down dangerous compounds into non-toxic substances.
This technology is now used widely by industry to remediate polluted land and is one of NASA’s most widely licensed innovations.
7. Insulin Pump for Diabetic Patient Astronauts
NASA’s efforts to monitor the condition of astronauts during long-distance missions have resulted in a system capable of monitoring body condition automatically. This technology was then applied in insulin pumps for type 1 diabetes sufferers.
Insulin pumps allow for more precise insulin dosing and reduce reliance on daily injections, improving patient quality of life.
8.Rocket Separation Technology for Emergency Rescue
The pyrotechnic principles NASA used to separate the probe from its booster rocket were adapted into makeshift cutting tools called Lifeshears. This tool is lighter and quieter than hydraulic equipment, and has been used in a variety of rescue operations, including after major disasters such as the Oklahoma City bombing and the September 11 tragedy.
9. Charge-Coupled Device (CCD)
The high-sensitivity CCD NASA developed for the Hubble Telescope makes it possible to capture detailed images of the cosmos. Similar technology is now used in medical imaging, including breast cancer detection. With sharper image quality, doctors can carry out more accurate and minimally invasive examinations.
10. Water Filter for Astronauts
NASA developed an iodine-based water filtration system to ensure astronauts have safe drinking water. This technology was then adapted for water treatment on Earth, especially in areas with polluted water sources. NASA also continues to develop water recycling technology, including a system capable of converting human waste into drinkable water.
Source: HowStuffWorks