How have NASA's space helmets influenced optical technology?

Have you ever been warned not to look directly at the sun because it could damage your eyes? The sun emits tremendous amounts of energy. Thankfully, Earth's atmosphere disperses and reflects some of that solar energy before it reaches the surface, shielding us from its harmful effects [source: Pidwirny]. However, if you're in space, beyond Earth's protective atmosphere, advanced technology is required to safeguard your eyes and skin from the sun's rays.

When NASA began preparing astronauts for space missions, developing space helmets with proper eye protection and addressing optical considerations were crucial. Optics, the science of light, deals with how light is produced, manipulated, and phenomena like rainbows [source: Merriam-Webster]. Through its Technology Utilization Program (TUP), NASA's research on space helmets has led to significant contributions to optics in various commercial products unrelated to space exploration [source: NASA].

In the 1980s, NASA scientists researched the damaging effects of ultraviolet (UV) light on the human eye. They discovered that the UV light from the welding work done by astronauts caused corneal inflammation and long-lasting damage to the retina. To mitigate the impact of UV light generated during welding, researchers created a welding curtain designed to filter out the harmful rays. This innovation was inspired by the natural eye chemistry of birds of prey, which enables them to see targets over long distances [source: NASA].

The welding industry wasn’t the only sector to benefit from this technology. When you step outside in sunlight, you’re exposed to the UV light from the sun that isn’t filtered by Earth's atmosphere. Researchers have connected UV exposure in the eyes to the temporary discomforts of photokeratitis and long-term problems like cataracts, which could lead to blindness. To safeguard your eyes, you can wear sunglasses with UV protection. Eagle Eye Optics was founded to incorporate NASA’s technology into sunglasses with UV protection. As awareness of UV's harmful effects grew (thanks to NASA's research), other industries began integrating UV protection into products like eyeglasses and contact lenses [sources: NASA, AOA].

Now, let’s explore a few products that were enhanced by NASA’s optical research and space helmet technology.

NASA's Innovative Contributions to Optics

Another optical development related to NASA’s space helmets was virtual reality (VR) technology. VR became a major topic in both science and entertainment during the 1980s. At the 1986 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), NASA showcased a 3D video helmet that allowed users to experience an immersive virtual reality environment. The helmet was equipped with two small LCD TV screens from portable TVs, which were gaining popularity at the time. The images adjusted according to the wearer’s head movements. With transparent screens, projected images could be overlaid on the wearer’s typical view through the visor.

Since the 1986 CES, computing power has advanced, and virtual reality (VR) devices have evolved from prototypes into fully functional products. Today’s VR systems are lighter and offer superior graphics. By 2004, NASA had created VR technology allowing astronauts aboard orbiting spacecraft to control robots performing repairs outside the vessel. This technology enabled astronauts to carry out repairs with the precision of a human hand, while avoiding the risks of donning a suit and floating in space. Additionally, companies like Mattel have adapted this VR technology for the gaming industry [sources: Hawkins, NASA].

NASA's advancements in optics have extended far beyond eyewear. For instance, in 2003, Westinghouse Lighting Corporation introduced the Eye Saver Easy Reading Light Bulb. Designed to focus light on a work surface, this innovation helps individuals with macular degeneration work more comfortably. The technology behind the bulb was based on NASA research, where a scientist applied their expertise in the optics of deep space telescopes [source: NASA].

Skiers have also reaped the benefits of NASA’s optical research. To prevent spacecraft windows from fogging up before launch, NASA developed a specialized coating for the windows that combined detergent, oxygen-compatible oil, and deionized water. Ski goggle manufacturers licensed this technology from NASA, allowing skiers to enjoy clearer vision while navigating the slopes [sources: NASA, Mercer].

If NASA had not faced the challenges of light in space, it’s hard to say what optical technology we would have today for eyewear, telescopes, and other optical devices on Earth. NASA's research has significantly expanded our understanding of vision, sparking numerous developments in optical technology.