The knowledge gained from the exploration of space fuels science and discovery, creates innovative technology, stimulates education, spurs medical advancements, supports a robust economy, improves our quality of life and contributes to a safer environment.  More than 1,500 documented products have been derived from space technology, including fire-resistant materials, enhanced weather-forecasting tools and miniaturized medical devices such as an insulin pump and the DeBakey Heart Pump.

Facts to Consider

Technology - During the past 30 years, space program technology has resulted in more than 1,500 commercial products, including rain water purification systems for developing countries, satellite radio, digital and satellite television, cell phone technology, cordless tools, and GPS navigation in the family car, boat and even on the family farm.

Innovation - A survey of 146 senior executives by Christian & Timbers in 2004 found that 69% agreed with a prediction that the U.S. Space Exploration Plan would drive new technology and boost venture capital markets.

Medical - Digital hearing aids, miniature heart pumps, cancer detection devices, common smoke detectors, fire-resistant aircraft seats, safety grooving on roads, LASIK eye surgery, humanitarian demining devices, and numerous other medical and safety devices and improvements trace their origins to space technology.

Economy - Just 15 firms that received an initial $64 million in NASA life sciences research and added $200 million of their own money created a $1.5 billion return on investment in the form of sold commercial goods and services during 25 years (Space Policy Institute at George Washington University).

Environment - We have learned more about our home planet and how best to preserve and protect it due to improved software and imaging developed from the space program. Space technology is responsible for rainwater purification systems for developing countries and numerous environmentally friendly products.