2007-06-09 07:49:15 · 5 answers · asked by Rod 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Astronomy & Space
Probably the two most important are plastic materials, (synthetics), and miniaturization of electronic/computer components.
2007-06-09 07:54:23 · answer #1 · answered by Brant 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Many of the developments in computer science that allow you to have a personal computer in your home bagen as a requirement for making small, lightweight computers that could be carried on a spacecraft. Camcorders are a direct offshoot from the work that made it possible to carry a video camera into space to record men walking on the Moon. Materials designed for use in space have other applications here on Earth. Hang-gliding has its genesis in the Gemini program, believe it or not, when the original recovery idea was to have a triangular wing to allow a piloted descent onto land.
Satnav in cars is possible only because of the space program, as is worldwide communication via satellites. Your TV would have far fewer channels if not for space research.
Velco, contrary to popular myth, was not created for the space program, but it was popularised by it because of its amazing usefulness for securing objects from floating around the cabin.
2007-06-09 19:54:23 · answer #2 · answered by Jason T 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Well--for starters, much of the technology that forms the basis of your computer was originally done for the space program.
You've heard of Velcro, of course--that's from space. so is any "satellite" phon," and all those direct (satellite TV) dishes decorating our homes. GPS positioning systems. Teflon.
Many things now are made of carbon composites--even things like eyglass lenses.
On a larger scale--weatehr and communications satellites. Much of the diagnostic machinery doctors now use started with NASA medical research. And the next generation of aircraft use carbon composite materials that make them stronger and lighter--thus saving fuel and reducing costs. And a lot of the technology that goes into solar power systems comes from NASA--as does the "hydrogen fuel cell" technology we may use in cars in a few years.
2007-06-09 16:04:22 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Fuel cells which run on hydrogen and are used to generate shuttle power are now being used as the electrical energy source in prototype cars.
Moisture barrier materials that are used for installation of wood and laminate flooring.
Numerous research projects were able to develop perfect crystals in shuttle experiments because of the zero-gravity environment.
2007-06-09 15:00:51 · answer #4 · answered by Matt D 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Hawaiian punch in a pouch. Flowbee hair cutting system.
2007-06-09 15:49:47 · answer #5 · answered by Kirk Rose 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋