Benefits of Space Research 13/06/2016 Although space research has some direct benefits, there are many other inventions that have come from space research: Imaging technology, such as mobile phone cameras and advanced ultrasound scanners Satellite technology for phone calls, SatNav systems, TV satellites Weather forecasting Smoke detectors, cordless tools, firefighting equipment and other inventions also owe their creation to space research.

TV satellite dish 13/06/2016 NASA developed ways to correct errors in the signals coming from the spacecraft. This technology is used to reduce distorted pictures or sound in TV signals coming from satellites.

Smoke detectors 13/06/2016 First used in the Earth orbiting space station called Skylab (launched back in 1973) to help detect any toxic vapors. Now used in most homes and other buildings to warn people of fire.

Fire fighting equipment 13/06/2016 Firefighter Air Breathing System The old firefighter air breathing system was heavy and big so firefighters got tired very quickly when using it. Today’s air breathing system incorporates materials and technology from original NASA technology into a lighter, less bulky breathing apparatus. The air tank weighs one-third less than traditional gear and is pressurized at twice the level. Protective clothing Technology used to provide thermal protection for Apollo astronauts and spacecraft components provides firefighters with better protective clothing and equipment. Satellite Tracking of Fires NASA’s Earth Observing System consists of satellites that can transmit the location, area, and extent of a fire. They can also track the direction of fires, the size of smoke plumes, and projected pollution effects. This assists U.S. Forest Service fire managers in evaluating the level of danger for firefighters and determining where to deploy resources.

MRI Scanning equipment 13/06/2016 MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging. It is used to scan and analyse functions of the human body. NASA developed ways to process signals from spacecraft to produce clearer images and this technology was developed to produce MRI scans

Cordless tools 13/06/2016 On the Moon, astronauts used specifically developed portable tools that are now used today on Earth. Cordless screwdrivers, drills and other rechargeable power tools are one of the most successful commercial space- based technology.

Benefits of the space programme 13/06/2016 New materials like:Why is it a Benefit to us? alloys Heat resistant fibres

Benefits of the space programme 13/06/2016 New products like:Why is it a Benefit to us? special foods Formulaid—NASA-sponsored research exploring the potential use of algae as a recycling agent for long- duration space travel has led to the development of enriched baby food. The formula being fed to an infant contains an algae-based additive highly enriched in nutrients that are believed to be beneficial for infants’ mental and visual development scratch-resistant lenses

Benefits of the space programme 13/06/2016 New technology like:Why is it a Benefit to us? Computer chips Communications Water purification Water-purification technology used on the Apollo spacecraft is now employed in several applications to kill bacteria, viruses, and algae in community water-supply systems and cooling towers. Among the applications is a line of home and portable water filters. Filters mounted on faucets can reduce lead in water supplies.