For many of us, the space race is a far distant memory – but if it wasn’t for the tireless efforts of NASA, there are a few items that we wouldn’t necessary have today.

Since its inception in 1958, the space agency has gone well beyond making space travel possible.

Putting man on the moon wasn’t their only mission: they wanted to make them as comfy, healthy and easier as possible and so they came up with a few items you might see differently next time:

1. Indoor workouts

Yes, everyone’s go-to gym machine, the treadmill, was made for astronauts. One of the long-term effects of extended periods of time in zero gravity is that it weakens the body, causing bones to decrease in density and muscles to break down. While originally designed for astronauts to move their bodies to keep them from degenerating, they offer up a good solution for the rest of us to keep fit when the couch is calling.

2. Straighter teeth

 NASA invented the translucent ceramic that became the main component of the first “invisible” dental braces, which are now one of the best-selling orthodontic products of all time.

3. Sunglasses

What’s now considered a fashion statement was the brainchild of NASA – a solution for scientists who were being exposed to damaging light that could impact their long-term vision. The UV filter glass developed was used to create technology they could protect their eyes with while operating laser equipment and now, what we shade our eyes with from the sun.

4. Freeze dried fruit

After conducting research on space food in preparation for the Apollo missions, together with Nestle they came up with freeze drying – a process that involves dehydration of food to make it more convenient to transport.

5. A comfortable sleep

Originally developed to protect aircraft passengers in the case of a collision, memory foam has made its way into everything from mattresses to sneakers. The foam works by feeding gas into pressurized areas to match the press being pushed against it (like your body after working a 12 hour day). It was first called “slow spring back foam,” then “temper foam.” The latter name was taken by a Swedish bedding company which created the Tempur-Pedic mattress.

Talk about a few revelations.

One local invention that fits right in is Drilby.

The dust-catching drill assistant would be the perfect number two to any astronaut attempting to use a drill in outer space – not only would it help guide the drill in properly, but it would catch all the dust, too!

Check this:

Drilby, every toolbox needs one, even those in space!

[source:nypost]