by Dictionary Scoop
NASA may be all about exploring space, but they have also improved life on Earth, did you know that?
For example, the sneakers you use to go for a run every week, that’s NASA’s work. The agency’s innovations have made their way into our everyday routines in surprising ways. Let’s go through some everyday items that wouldn’t exist without those geniuses at NASA.
1–Memory foam
Do you know how your mattress molds to your body? Don’t you just love it? That’s memory foam, baby! Developed by NASA to protect astronauts during takeoff, this squishy wonder found its way into mattresses, pillows, and even bras!
It’s pressure-relieving, comfy, and perfect for sweet dreams. In short, thank you NASA! We owe you all of our good sleep nights!
2-Digital camera
NASA didn’t invent the selfie, but they sure made it possible! Back in the 1990s, their scientists developed digital imaging sensors to snap pictures of planets and stars. These sensors became the foundation for your phone’s camera, DSLRs, and even GoPros.
It was only a matter of time until this technology was developed to make picture-perfect memories for ourselves, right?
3–GPS
Ever been saved by Google Maps? You can thank NASA for helping you find the way back.
In the 1990s, they perfected precision GPS software to correct navigation errors. This technology helps you avoid wrong turns, but it also assists ships, planes, and even tractors. Getting lost is so last century.
4–LED bulbs
Your favorite energy-saving light bulbs? Yep, NASA had a hand in that too. They studied how light impacts astronauts’ sleep cycles and created LEDs to mimic natural daylight or cozy nighttime hues.
Now, your home lighting can help you feel more alert in the morning or relaxed at bedtime.
5–Baby formula
Here’s a NASA win for these cute, little humans. While developing food for astronauts, researchers discovered omega-3 fatty acids. You may not know this, but they are vital for brain and eye development.
Today, over 90 percent of infant formulas include this breakthrough ingredient.
6–The dustbuster
Have you got one of those cordless handheld vacuums you can use for quick cleanups? No surprise over here, but they came straight from outta space!
NASA worked with Black & Decker to develop tools for collecting moon samples. The result? The iconic Dustbuster! Now we use it for picking up cookie crumbs, but if anyone asks, you can say you’re using technology inspired by moon missions.
7–Scratch-resistant glasses
Do you toss your glasses into your bag without a case? Thank NASA that they’re still scratch-free! Originally designed to protect astronaut helmets, this tough coating made its way to glasses, sunglasses, and safety goggles.
We know a few nearsighted people who are eternally grateful for this one!
8–Cochlear implants
NASA didn’t just look to the stars, and visually impaired people are not the only ones who benefited. They also helped people hear them. Specifically a hearing-impaired astronaut, Adam Kissiah Jr.
In the late 1970s, this NASA engineer worked on improving the design behind cochlear implants, which turn sound into digital signals for the brain. This life-changing invention has restored hearing for millions.
9–Space blankets
Have you ever noticed those shiny emergency blankets? NASA developed them in 1973 to protect the spacecraft from sunlight.
Today, they’re lifesavers for hikers, campers, and disaster relief. Compact and heat-reflective, they’re a must-have in any survival kit.
10–Plant and air purifiers
NASA discovered that plants release ethylene gas in closed environments like space stations, which can cause spoilage. To fix it, they developed an ethylene scrubber.
Today, this tech is used in grocery stores to keep produce fresh and in homes to purify the air. Who knew astronauts and houseplants had so much in common?
11–Food safety standards
In some cases, NASA didn’t work alone. Take food safety standards, for example. They worked with Pillsbury to create food safety protocols for space missions. These guidelines set the gold standard for food storage, which ensured longer shelf lives and less contamination.
Every time you snack on freeze-dried fruit or camp food, you’re experiencing NASA’s tasty legacy.
12–Invisible braces
Braces don’t have to be clunky anymore, thanks to NASA. Their work with clear ceramics for space equipment inspired the materials used in invisible braces like Invisalign.
Now you can straighten your teeth without looking like a teenager again. NASA’s tech doesn’t just fix rockets, it fixes smiles too. Is there anything they can’t do?
13–Speedo swimsuits
Some things were not invented to solve an outer space problem, but the resources they have helped a lot!
For example in 2008, NASA helped Speedo design the LZR Racer swimsuit by testing materials in their wind tunnels. The result? A swimsuit so sleek that Olympic swimmers shattered records wearing it.
14–Sneaker cushioning
Ever felt like your sneakers had a little bounce? Well, that’s actually NASA’s doing! They developed shock-absorbing materials for astronauts’ boots, which later inspired the cushioned soles in today’s athletic shoes.
Every time you take a comfortable step, you’re walking on space technology.
15–Radiant insulation
Radiant barrier insulation, which was actually first created to regulate temperatures in spacecraft, found a home on Earth in 2004.
Applied to attics and walls, it can keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Thanks to NASA, staying comfy indoors is easier and cheaper than ever!
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