8 Technologies We Can Thank NASA For
Whether you’re a scientist or a layman, you probably know that NASA has a lot of amazing technologies that can improve your life. For example, you’ve probably heard about laser surgery, infrared aural thermometers, and CMOS image sensors. However, do you know what else NASA has developed?
CMOS image sensors
CMOS image sensors are part of a number of small devices. These are used in everything from counting people at airports to detecting fevers. The technology provides greater image quality and lower noise.
One of the main advantages of CMOS sensors is their low cost. The technology has become very popular in high-end cameras, as well as mobile phones. This technology has replaced the chemical-based CCD devices. The advantages of CMOS image sensors include higher quantum efficiency, reduced noise, and pixel-level control.
CMOS image sensors can be implemented in several architectures. These include frame-transfer, interline, and full-frame. Each of these architectures has its own benefits and drawbacks.
Lifeshears
During the years of the Space Shuttle Program, NASA scientists developed several useful technologies. These inventions have helped to improve human health and transportation. Some of these technologies have even been commercialized. Several of them are now used on everyday commercial aircraft.
In the 1970s, NASA developed foam to improve comfort on long-haul flights. They also developed artificial muscle systems for space vehicles. A team of shuttle engineers and cardiologists also developed an implantable pump for children awaiting transplants.
NASA also discovered algae that naturally produce omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are vital to the development of infants. These plants are also used as a recycling agent for space missions.
Infrared aural thermometer
Despite the fact that NASA is well-known for its moon landings, its scientists have also worked to create several useful technologies that are now found all over the world. These technologies have improved our lives and enhanced our future. Here are eight of the technologies we can thank NASA for.
The first aural thermometer was developed by NASA and a California-based company. This device enables a user to take a temperature reading in less than two seconds. Unlike the conventional mercury-based thermometer, it does not touch the mucous membranes of the ear. It also avoids the possibility of cross-infection.
NASA scientists worked with engineers from the Diatek Corporation to develop an infrared sensor for the aural thermometer. The sensor is stuck inside the device and is used to take a temperature reading. When the reading is complete, the temperature data is displayed on a liquid crystal screen.
LASIK
LASIK, also known as laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis, is a procedure that reshapes the cornea to correct short-sightedness and nearsightedness. During the procedure, a corneal flap is made with a laser, then the underlying cornea is reshaped with a different type of laser. During the procedure, a high-definition sensor captures thousands of data points from each eye. This information is used to create a customized treatment plan.
One of the more innovative NASA LASIK technologies is the Wavefront. This technology is used to create a three-dimensional map of the cornea. This map is a precise replica of the eye’s shape. It is used to accurately detect and correct defects. It also helps create a unique surgical plan for each patient.
Single crystal silicon solar power cells
Several types of solar cells have been produced over the years. The most common type of solar cell is based on silicon. This is a very versatile material, which can be used in several different applications. However, it does have some disadvantages.
One of the main reasons for this is the cost of silicon. Having a cheaper source of silicon made it easier for solar cells to be produced. This in turn made them cheaper. But, it also meant that the manufacturing process required a lot of time. It also meant that the silicon had to be purified. This was a very expensive process.
