What If #6

What if we had never made it into space? We would not be as far into our technological advancement if not for our space travel. Velcro was perfected by NASA for use by the space program. It allowed for an astronaut to stick something to his or her suit and not have to worry about it floating off of what would have been some sort of hook. So next time you use something with Velcro, thank NASA. A list of other inventions originating in space are: satellite dishes, medical imaging (CAT scanner/MRI), vision screening system( the big E at the top), the ear thermometer, fire fighter equipment, smoke detectors, sun tiger glasses, automobile design tools, cordless tools. aerodynamic bike wheels, thermal ware, space pens, shock absorbing helmets, ski boots, failsafe flashlights, invisible braces, edible toothpaste, joystick controllers, and advanced plastics. The list is massive, and none of these would have come about if not for our push to be the first nation into space. Can you remember those little freeze-dried balls of ice cream called Dippin' Dots? Those were invented for astronauts while they are in space. NASA even helped develop a process for new-age pavement where old tires are cooled to below -200 degrees Fahrenheit to separate the elements that make up the tire. Specific parts of the tire can then be used to make new pavement. All those who wear glasses can appreciate NASA's work on scratch resistant glass. On the medical side, NASA helped develop the technology that allowed the satellites to send signals and receive updates remotely without having to make contact with the dish. This led to the wireless capability of pacemakers to send signals to doctors without them having to open up the patient. Last but certainly not least are your "kicks". The soles of your shoes are most likely composed of viscoelastic bubbles that are designed to contour to your feet as you apply pressure and then return to normal. The technology derived from NASA's material that was used to cushion astronauts during the high G forces of liftoff.