Newer suits also feature circulating coolant to keep firefighters from succumbing to heat and advanced breathing systems modeled after astronaut life support systems. The polymers created for use in space suits have been valuable in creating flame-retardant, heat-resistant suits for firefighters. Needing to monitor astronauts' vital signs in space, the Goddard Space Flight Center created monitoring systems that have been adapted to regulate blood sugar levels and release insulin as needed. Scratch-resistant lensesĪfter NASA developed scratch-resistant astronaut helmets, the agency gave a license to Foster-Grant Corporation to continue experimenting with scratch-resistant plastics, which now comprise most sunglasses and prescription lenses. Innovations originally designed for space vehicles, including artificial muscle systems, robotic sensors, diamond-joint coatings, and temper foam, make artificial human limbs more functional, durable, comfortable and life-like. Unlike modern inventions we no longer use, these inventions are employed daily to save lives, improve environmental sustainability, and keep humans healthy. We compiled 30 common items that were invented for use in the race for space. That’s been the job of teams of dedicated scientists who have facilitated some of the most unforgettable moments in space exploration.Ģ4/7 Tempo reviewed dozens of modern products that exist because of advancements in the field of space exploration. Creating an environment that can sustain human life in the almost total absence of gravity, as well as no electrical outlets or oxygen, takes a lot of experimentation. View Gallery: Space race: Inventions we use every day were created for outer spaceĭespite sending humans to Earth's orbit and the moon, the idea of humans surviving in outer space must seem like science fiction.

Name of all space shuttles