Technological Advances

One exemplary benefit of NASA is its role in numerous technological advances. The areas in which NASA-developed technologies benefit society are: health and medicine, transportation, public safety, consumer goods, environmental and agricultural resources, computer technology and industrial productivity. Common household technologies, such as Teflon, were developed by NASA. GPS, now a staple of modern society, was produced by NASA scientists. A recent innovation in insulation is also credited to NASA scientists, Aerogel. Aerogel is a substance that can absorb extremely high temperatures without failure, a trait that is applicable to many sectors of commercialization. It will soon be used in everything from coats to houses, infusing millions of dollars into the economy. The 2011-2012 budget cuts do not harm NASA’s Research and Development, so continued benefits to the economy should be expected.

Picture: http://stardust.jpl.nasa.gov/tech/aerogel.html

Link: http://sbir.nasa.gov/SBIR/successes/ss/10-017text.html

Source: Wilson, J.r. "NASA - Space Program Benefits: NASA’s Positive Impact on Society." NASA - Home. NASA. Web. 06 Dec. 2011. <http://www.nasa.gov/50th/50th_magazine/benefits.html>.