It Came from Outer Space: Everyday Products and Ideas from the Space Program

What do anthrax protection, golf clubs and cordless tools all have in common? Each was invented or improved with technology first developed for the space programme. Since NASA’s inception 45 years ago, hundreds of devices and products have been spun off form the research and development required to put rockets into space and humans on the moon. To expand our knowledge of the universe, scientists and engineers with the space programme must constantly confront new challenges in vehicle design, life support, communication and astronaut health and well-being and the solutions to these challenges often benefit those of us who remain on Earth. This title tells the story of 67 of the most consumer-friendly products that have come out of space-related research. The reference guide makes it easy to discover the fascinating histories of many now commonplace items. One model of ergonomic chairs was designed from the position of astronauts at rest in Skylab. The need to track changes in an astronaut’s heart led to improvements in heart-rate monitors. Space technology has even led to improvements in swimsuits and ballpoint pens. The title also includes extensive information on the history of NASA and of the technology transfer centres that help make such product improvements happen, as well as lesson plans and resources.