'Pillars of Creation' reloaded - msnbc.com (blog)

If it were not for space exploration and the space program, that fancy smart phone you have, wouldn't exist. Your computer would still be made with vacuum tubes and take up your garage. Here is a short list of things that have been invented due to the space program.

Scheduling software, semiconductors, microchips, structural analysis software, air quality monitors, virtual reality, Advanced keyboards, Customer Service Software, Database Management System, Laser Surveying, Aircraft controls, Lightweight Compact Disc, Expert System Software, Microcomputers, Design Graphics, Microwave ovens, enriched baby food, scratch-resistant eyeglass lenses, water purification, portable solid-state coolers/warmers, sports training, athletic shoes, Dustbuster, shock-absorbing helmets, home security systems, smoke detectors, flat panel televisions, high-density batteries, trash compactors, food packaging and freeze-dried technology, cool sportswear, sports bras, hair styling appliances, fogless ski goggles, self-adjusting sunglasses, composite golf clubs, hang gliders, art preservation, quartz crystal timing equipment, microspheres, weather forecasting, forest management, environmental control sensors, wind monitors, telemetry systems, plant research, Hydroponics, fire resistant materials, radiation insulation, Whale identification method, environmental analysis, noise abatement, pollution measuring devices, pollution control devices, smokestack monitor, radioactive leak detector, earthquake prediction system, sewage treatment, energy saving air conditioning, air purification, digital imaging breast biopsy system, breast cancer detection, laser angioplasty, ultrasound skin-damage assesment, human tissue stimulator, cool suit, programmable heart pacemaker, ocular screening, automated urinalysis, medical gas analyzer, voice-controlled wheelchair, Arteriosclerosis detection, ultrasound scanners, automatic insulin pump, portable x-ray device, invisible braces, dental arch wire, palate surgery technology, clean room apparel, implantable heart aid, MRI, bone analyzer, cataract surgery tools, magnetic liquids, welding sensor system, microlasers, magnetic bearings, plasma-sprayed engine coating, interactive multi-media training, high-pressure water stripping, advanced welding torch, Gasoline vapor recovery, self-locking fasteners, machine tool software, laser wire stripper, lubricant coating process, wireless communications, engine coatings, engine design, personal radiation detectors, Remotely-operated robot, personal alarm system, emergency rescue cutters, Lighter-weight firefighter's air tanks, Lightning detectors, self-righting life rafts, Storm warning services (Doppler radar), firefighters' radios, lead poison detection, fire detector, flame detector, corrosion protection coating, protective clothing, and robotic hands, studless winter tires, high-temperature composite materials, laminar airflow air purification, lightweight composite materials, improved aircraft engines, environmental-friendly lubricants, Flywheel Energy Storage system, aircraft design, Safer bridges, emission testing, airline wheelchairs, electric car, auto design, methane-powered vehicles, windshear prediction, and aircraft design analysis.

Live happily in ignorance!