The trickle-down, spin-off technology from our exploration of space
NASA Technical Reports
The exploration of space can have benefits for healthcare on the ground. One concern in space travel is the effect on bone density and muscle. But weakened and fragile bones are a problem on Earth too, in osteoporosis – which affects around three million people in the UK. Work to minimise degradation of astronauts’ bones on the International Space Station (ISS) can improve ways to treat the condition here on Earth.
The ISS is also equipped with dexterous robotic arms designed to undertake complicated repairs. That technology has been adapted for operating theatres, where it is used in procedures including knee replacements.
Even our search for life on other planets has benefited life at home. In the 1970s the Viking lander touched down on the surface of Mars, equipped with an experiment to sniff out life in the Martian soil. The same technology was later adapted into an insulin pump for people with diabetes.
- Space Safety: Osteoporosis drugs
- NASA interactive: Trace space back to you
- Beyond Earth: Feature on diabetes
Questions for discussion
- Can you find five further health innovations that have come from space?
- Have you ever used one of these innovations?
- PDF of Helping healthcare [PDF 109KB]