To millions of people, space exploration is a waste of time and money. Earlier this month, when Elon Musk’s company SpaceX launched a Tesla Roadster into orbit, the general public seemed divided; half were giddy at the display of technology and innovation, and the other half were disgusted that the $90 million effort wasn’t instead used for issues on Earth.
But the truth is, space exploration technology, and other discoveries and technologies that arise because of it, are incredibly influential and beneficial; not only does space research improve the economy by keeping scientists and engineers employed, it also results in new tech and gadgets—some of which we use in our everyday lives.
You might be perplexed by this concept, but the premise is easy to understand. Scientists need to conquer all kinds of new challenges when traveling to space, including:
Traveling efficiently
It takes an inordinate amount of fuel to launch a rocket into space, so scientists are constantly developing new measures to make travel more efficient. These include new fuel types, new materials, and more aerodynamic designs.
Traveling safely
NASA engineers also need to make sure the travel is safe for the people on board. That means developing safer, more durable materials for the vehicles and better equipment for the people on board.
Improving human health
Astronauts face a variety of tough conditions in space, including low gravity and exposure to radiation. Accordingly, scientists have to incorporate new methods and materials to compensate for these health challenges.
Discovering new things
Along the way, researchers are constantly discovering new things about space and Earth-based life we take along for the ride.
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