Astronomy and Consumer Products

While the study of Astronomy has produced many great findings and insights about the nature of the universe, it has created several amazing by-products along the way. In fact, NASA research and development has produced some of the most innovative and valuable pieces of technology used right here on Earth. Here we'll examine some of the amazing by-products of NASA!

Solar Panels

http://science.howstuffworks.com/innovation/nasa-inventions/nasa-improve-solar-energy.htm

Given the lack of power supplies and electricity in space, NASA had to tackle the problem of powering their satellites and space crafts while in orbit. Since the most readily available resource in space is the light from the sun, NASA overcame the challenge by harvesting solar power. Since most satellites sit beyond the range of earth's atmosphere, they never need to worry about a cloudy day! Stemming from NASA's work with solar panels, the technology has expanded to use on homes across the globe!

Memory Foam

http://www.memoryfoam.com/mattress/history-of-memory-foam/

In the late 1960's, NASA worked to develop improved seat cushions to allow astronauts to withstand the extreme G-forces of space travel. This development led to the invention of Memory foam, which has expanded to applications in mattresses and chairs by companies like Tempur-Pedic. 

Smoke Detectors

http://list25.com/25-coolest-nasa-discoveries-that-changed-your-life/2/

In the first United States space station, Skylab, NASA needed to create some mechanism for detecting toxic gases and fires on board. With this, they developed the first smoke detector, which has now become a required device in homes universally!

Cordless Power Tools

http://list25.com/25-coolest-nasa-discoveries-that-changed-your-life/3/

Again stemming from the electrical outlet limitations aboard a spacecraft, and the need to make repairs on the fly, NASA developed the worlds first cordless power tools. The expansion of power tools back on earth has allowed for significant advancements in carpentry and home improvement.

Light Emitting Diodes (LED)

http://list25.com/25-coolest-nasa-discoveries-that-changed-your-life/5/

To provide space shuttles with high-intensity, power efficient light, NASA developed light emitting diodes. These have been applied almost universally in flashlights, and in extensive automotive applications.