National Aeronautics and Space Administration stands for NASA. When we hear the word NASA, a different image is formed in our mind. From NASA, we learn about rockets, satellites, telescopes, space suits, and all things related to space. Because NASA has been focusing on space exploration since its inception in 1958 and working with revolutionary technology. But you will be surprised to know that NASA has also developed similar technology devices that we use at work every day. You too know about these devices…
Wireless headphones NASA did not actually invent modern wireless headphones, but NASA developed this technology. NASA was able to develop it in collaboration with an audio company. A robust wireless communication system in a space suit was first realized in 1961 when a capsule hatch prematurely exploded in the middle of the ocean during a test for Project Mercury. This caused the communication system in the capsule to shut down.
Fortunately, the helicopters were able to find only the astronaut in the capsule. But better communication between the command center and the astronauts was needed, so a wireless headphone system was developed. In fact, NASA contacted a company called Pacific Plantronics, who developed a wireless headset called the MS-50 that same year. This technology was developed in the late 2000s to make consumer-grade wireless headphones.
Digital image sensor If you’ve ever taken a photo with a DSLR camera or smartphone you can thank NASA. The first digital camera was created by Eastman Kodak in 1975, but its concept was introduced in the 1960s. In fact, Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) engineer Eugene Lally was the first to develop the digital camera concept. Eugene Lally first described the use of mosaic photo sensors to digitize light signals and still photos in the late 1960s.
NASA confirmed this in a blog post. In the 1990s, a JPL team investigated complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensors to build cameras. Scaled in the interplanetary spacecraft camera to enhance the image. This same technology was later used to invent Photobit, which became the first company to commercialize a CMOS image sensor.
Cordless vacuum cleaner NASA has also developed a cordless vacuum cleaner. NASA said in a post, “Cordless vacuum cleaners developed for lunar exploration and sample collection, battery-powered devices.
Computer mouse If you use a computer, you must use a mouse. Douglas Engelbart is credited with inventing the mouse, but the invention of the mouse was a joint effort between him and NASA. In fact, Douglas Engelbart and NASA worked together to expand the computer’s use case in the 1960s. It was during this time that the computer mouse was developed.
Water purifier Yes, NASA is also credited with developing the water purifier. NASA was the first to discover an essential component of a modern water purifier. Of course, astronauts in space need clean water. But with limited resources, it’s important to reuse as much water as possible. And for that NASA has developed the Water Recovery System (WRS). A key part of this is the Microbial Check Valve (MCV).
MCV is an iodized resin that is an easy way to control microbial growth in water without using electricity. It was originally released for the non-profit organization Concern for Children. It has since been used in countless products to provide clean water, especially in developing countries.
