Most of us are probably more likely to be struck by lightning than travel in space, so we don’t tend to think much about NASA and our country’s space program on any kind of regular basis.
But the truth is that the brilliant scientists at NASA have invented a gazillion different things that we use in our daily lives. From invisible braces to memory foam, water filters, barcodes, joysticks, and ear thermometers, NASA holds over 6,300 patents on commercial products and technology.
But their latest contribution to society can help with a lot more than improving gaming systems. The WARP 75 uses light technology developed by NASA to help alleviate some of the painful side effects associated with chemotherapy and radiation treatment in cancer patients undergoing bone marrow or stem cell transplants. The technology was originally developed to promote plant growth on space shuttle missions, but has been shown in tests to aid in the treatment of oral mucositis. The benefit is threefold: better nutrition for the patient who is able to eat more easily, less need for pain medication, and increased morale which has been proven to speed recovery. So the next time you’re watching a launch or just watching the stars, don’t forget about all the great work NASA does right here on Earth!
How interesting. Someone once told me it good to know a little about everything, and who knows this tidbit of info might just come in handy!