NASA-Created Everyday Items
The United States space programme has sent 12 men to the moon, rovers to Mars, and numerous probes to the far reaches of our solar system over the years. The research behind these and other projects has resulted in a plethora of products and ideas that help the world, including some you may not have expected. Here are a few NASA inventions that you may come across in your daily life.
The Camera On a Mobile Phone
You can credit NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory for your smartphone’s ability to capture selfies. Cell phones employ a complementary metal oxide semiconductor image sensor, which NASA researchers reduced in size and weight while improving image clarity. Surprisingly, the concept of a mobile phone was initially studied at JPL in the 1960s.
Foam for Tempering
Temper foam, sometimes known as memory foam, was developed at the Ames Research Center and has found several applications, including pillows, beds, safety equipment, aeroplane seats, and more. It evolved from the requirement for improved cushioning in order to improve crash protection.
Vacuum Cleaners With No Cords
That’s correct. Your handy dustbuster got its start in space. Black & Decker was tasked with building a motor for a portable drill to be used to recover core samples from the Moon during the Apollo programme. Cordless vacuums and other tiny home gadgets were developed as a result of the resulting technology.
An Ear Thermometer With Infrared Technology
Diatek Corporation created a lightweight auditory thermometer with NASA’s Technology Affiliates Program that detects the amount of energy emitted by the eardrum using the same infrared technology that astronomers use to determine the temperature of stars and planets. The thermometer, in addition to being exceptionally accurate, avoids contact with mucosal membranes, eliminating the danger of cross-contamination.
Pavement With Grooves
NASA scientists worked tirelessly to devise methods to reduce hydroplaning, a potentially fatal hazard on space shuttle landings. They discovered that carving grooves into runways helps evacuate water fast, which is now used on many motorways and commercial airport runways.
A Blanket For Emergencies.
Reflective blankets, a popular component of emergency kits, were developed by NASA in 1964. The lightweight foil sheets keep individuals warm and are often used by long-distance runners to minimise drastic variations in body temperature.