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As a frontrunner in the global space race, we anticipate such an organization to create groundbreaking technologies, lead transformative innovations, and devise solutions to challenges that often surpass the understanding of ordinary individuals. Yet, sharing technological advancements isn't a common practice. NASA also tackles everyday issues we overlook on Earth, made even more complex by the lack of oxygen, gravity, or the extreme cold of space.
Fortunately, NASA is exceptionally open about sharing its discoveries, allowing us to leverage these advancements to improve our lives. Below are ten NASA spinoff innovations that have significantly impacted life on Earth.
10. Detecting Breast Cancer
Space exploration comes with significant risks, including exposure to harmful radiation. Research revealed that astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) faced radiation levels equivalent to undergoing 1,000 chest X-rays.
While we encounter varying levels of radiation on Earth, excessive exposure can lead to cancer. To protect their team from developing severe, life-threatening cancers, NASA prioritized advanced preventative measures and detection technologies. They funded research to explore how DNA segments could gauge radiation exposure and evaluate its harmful effects.
The BioScan System has demonstrated its capability to scan, identify, and verify breast cancer by detecting cancerous cells' ability to form an alternate blood supply—a definitive indicator of malignant growths.
9. Highway Safety Grooving
Hydroplaning occurs during heavy rain when a vehicle's tires lose contact with the road due to water pressure, causing the driver to lose control. This phenomenon is a primary cause of skidding accidents in bad weather.
Given the dangers of hydroplaning, especially for spacecraft re-entering Earth's atmosphere at high speeds, NASA took action. In the 1960s, they proposed adding safety grooves to runways to channel water away, improving traction and safety.
Soon after, this innovation was applied to enhance the roads Americans use daily, resulting in an 85% decrease in wet-weather accidents following the introduction of the grooves.
8. Life Rafts from the Apollo Era
Space travel has advanced significantly in recent years, with shuttles now landing safely on designated runways. However, in the past, it wasn't as straightforward, and capsules often ended up in the ocean during a maneuver known as a splashdown.
NASA collaborated with Jim Givens, who was developing a similar concept—a device to keep astronauts afloat while search teams located them in the vast ocean. Together, they created an inflatable raft system that could be deployed upon water landing.
The Givens Raft has since been adapted for commercial purposes and, after years of use and improvements, has saved over 450 lives that might otherwise have been lost at sea.
7. Winglets for Airplanes
During the 1970s fuel crisis, which nearly crippled the global aviation industry, a group of NASA engineers and scientists seized the opportunity to innovate. They focused on developing technologies to conserve fuel and ensure the industry's survival.
The Aircraft Efficiency Program, a decade-long initiative, aimed to create aeronautical advancements that could improve fuel efficiency in future aircraft by up to 50%. Originally set to conclude by 1985, the program was extended to further its goals.
Collaborating with Boeing, NASA conducted flight tests on winglets, inspired by Richard Whitcomb's research. The tests revealed a 7% improvement in the lift-drag ratio and a 20% reduction in induced drag. These results significantly lowered fuel consumption and saved millions in fuel costs after winglets were implemented.
6. Implantable Heart Defibrillator
Dr. Michel Mirowski, a cardiologist at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, developed the first Implantable Cardiac Defibrillator. It was successfully implanted by Dr. Levi Watkins from the same institution.
The life-saving technology we rely on today evolved from NASA's space circuitry innovations. It effectively prevents arrhythmias, or irregular heartbeats, by using a microcomputer-powered device equipped with two heart sensors that deliver corrective electrical shocks when needed.
The development of polymers also enabled the implantation of pacemakers in complex cases of congestive heart failure. This breakthrough traces back to efforts to design a passenger jet capable of breaking the sound barrier.
5. Clear Aligners
While some are fortunate to avoid the discomfort of traditional metal braces, many people worldwide will need orthodontic treatment at some point in their lives. These devices gradually align teeth, though modern alternatives offer a more discreet solution.
Until the late 1980s, braces were crafted from highly visible metal that clamped teeth together, often adorned with colorful rubber bands for a touch of flair. NASA, collaborating with other innovators, developed translucent ceramics, a key material in 'invisible braces,' which quickly became a top-selling product in orthodontics.
NASA's influence on orthodontics extends beyond ceramics, with advancements in alloys, ultrasound, and X-ray technologies that enhance dental health diagnostics and treatments.
4. Smoke Detectors
Smoke detectors existed for years, but it wasn't until the 1960s that they were refined for residential use. Affordable, easy to install, and widely adopted, they also became notorious for frequent false alarms, despite being mandated by law.
As smoke detectors became commonplace, NASA focused on reducing false alarms in Skylab and other space facilities. Partnering with Honeywell Corporation, they created a new technology capable of distinguishing between smoke and other fumes. They also designed a compact, adjustable plastic unit tailored to specific needs.
Since its creation, the smoke detector has saved countless lives and reduced the expenses tied to false alarm responses. The adjustable version, in particular, has spared many from frustration and stress.
3. Plants That Send Texts
If your phone isn't already flooded with notifications, you might soon receive messages from your plants begging for water.
BioServe Space Technologies, backed by NASA, has created a leaf sensor that uses electrical pulses to determine when plants need watering. The agricultural sector quickly recognized its potential, leading to significant funding and remarkable progress in the field.
For those who struggle with gardening, a custom device could soon notify you when your plants are running low on water. Whether you want the constant reminder of your plant's thirst while you're away is up to you.
2. Satellite Tracking Systems
Originally designed for low-orbiting and geostationary satellites, tracking technology has evolved significantly over time.
Since the 1970s, NASA has supported the Cospas-Sarsat program, an international initiative for satellite-aided search and rescue operations. Using the Search and Rescue Satellite-Aided Tracking System (SARSAT), various beacons, such as the 406 Beacon, have been developed, allowing adventurers to explore land, air, and sea with unprecedented safety.
It is estimated that SARSAT beacons have saved over 50,000 lives globally in critical situations.
1. Camera Technology in Cell Phones
As you strike a pose for your next selfie, take a moment to acknowledge NASA's role in advancing the technology behind cell phone cameras.
While NASA didn't invent the cell phone camera, their development of active pixel sensors—crucial for digital imaging—played a pivotal role. These sensors, initially designed for space exploration, paved the way for complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensors.
CMOS image sensors emerged from NASA's efforts to create efficient, cost-effective spacecraft technology. This innovation also led to charge-coupled devices, enabling high-quality digital photography by the late 1980s. Eric Fossum further refined CMOS tech to produce compact, lightweight active pixel sensors. Smile for the camera!
