Have you asked questions like, “Why do we spend so much money on rockets and going to space?” Or “There are better ways to spend money.” You may be thinking that humans spend way too much time and money exploring outer space. Maybe you think that feeding the homeless, paying for medical care for people who can’t afford it, or spending the money to find a cure for cancer are much better uses of the money spent by NASA.

I am a big proponent of space travel and all the advances that have come about because of it. Did you know that space exploration has contributed to everyday life in so many different ways? I can guarantee you that you use things in your household that are a direct result of space exploration, and loved ones are alive today because of the amazing research and development that have come about because of NASA.

Here are just a few of the inventions and innovations accomplished as a result of space exploration:
Solar Panels
Building Insulation

Implantable Heart Monitors
Cancer Therapies
Insulin Pumps
Artificial Limbs
Home blood pressure kits
Ear Thermometers
Cochlear Implants

The imaging technology that gave us CT Scans and MRI’s.

Cordless tools
Handheld cordless vacuum
Satellite Television
Memory Foam
Water Filters

Ray Ban – the coating on sunglasses
Freeze drying
Baby food
Smart phone cameras

Fire-fighter breathing apparatus
Enhanced smoke detectors

Improved Radial Tires

Highway Grooving System

Each one of these inventions have made our lives easier, saved lives or contributes to the overall well-being of the planet. NASA Technology Transfer Program has connected NASA technology with private industry for over 50 years. NASA Spinoff enables you to see first hand products that were developed specifically by NASA.

In addition, currently the ISS (International Space Station) is currently conducting research such as preventing bone loss, heart research, and better solar panels. These types of research are aimed at improving the quality of life.

Still unconvinced that your life has been impacted by Space Exploration? Put your phone down, yank out your smoke detectors, get rid of your television, chuck the heart monitor or your insulin pump, and remove your insulation from your home. Are you really willing to remove all the advancements to science as a result of the space program? I, for one, am not.