Space travel isn't just to explore past our world, it also gave birth to some inventions that we use on a daily basis. Here are all the things that would not have existed if it were not for the space program. We've got a lot to thank it for!

Computer Mouse

In the 60s a NASA researcher was trying to make computers more user-friendly when an idea was suggested about how to manipulate data on a computer screen, and the mouse was born.

Baby Formula

Infant formulas now have a nutritional enrichment ingredient, which can be traced back to NASA-sponsored research that explored the use of algae for long duration space travel.

Artificial Limbs

NASA’s innovations into shock-absorption materials paired with robotic and extravehicular activities are being adapted to make more functionally dynamic artificial limbs.

Scratch-Resistant Lenses

The Lewis Research Center tried to develop diamond-hard coatings for aerospace systems, and scratch-resistant lenses were born.

CAT Scans

The same team that brought you camera phones played a big role in developing this technology, since space programs need really good digital images.

The Jaws of Life

The tool that extracts people from mangled vehicles uses a miniature version of the explosive charge used to separate devices on the Space Shuttle.

Wireless Headsets

NASA developed these to allow astronauts to be hands-free as well as wire-free.

Dust Busters

Black & Decker partnered up with NASA to develop a lightweight device to collect samples on the moon. The company then used the same concept to create the Dust Buster in 1979.

Athletic Shoes

Nike Air trainers wouldn’t be around if it weren’t for suit construction technology developed by NASA. The idea was first pitched by a former NASA engineer.

Water Purification Systems

In the 60s, NASA made an electrolytic silver iodizer to purify astronauts’ drinking water. This technology is now used to kill bacteria in pools.

Ear Thermometers

NASA and a company called Diatek created an 8-oz aural thermometer, which uses infrared astronomy technology to measure the amount of energy emitted by the ear drum.

Camera phones

In the 1990s, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory team worked to make cameras small enough to fit on spacecraft with scientific quality. We wouldn’t be able to take selfies without NASA. Be grateful.



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