AIA | Space Exploration & The National Interest

	Intro
	Truth in Space Budgeting
	The Real Connection
	Space and National Security
	Building International Alliances
	The Global Space Race
	The Mysteries of the Ecosystem
	About AIA
	Photo Credits

The Real Connection between Space and Life on Earth

Space exploration technologies have transformed health care, environmental protection, transportation, and public safety.

Space-to-Earth telecommunications research produced light, multi-layered semiconductors that now enhance the quality of medical imaging and scanning devices.

NASA solar cell and ultrasound breakthroughs set the stage for laser-directed angioplasties as well as advanced skin burn and breast cancer treatments.

On the environmental front, space shuttle emissions software led to the development of advanced air quality monitors for industrial smokestacks across the nation, and space life support instruments have generated state-of-the-art water purification monitors.

Today's automobile industry relies on structural safety testing protocols originally used for spacecraft while space propulsion systems remain vital to the performance of low-noise, low-emissions aircraft engines.

Emergency response robots used by New York City and other urban centers operate on NASA-created sensors, and many fire-resistant materials for clothing and furniture originated with spacesuits.

These tangible benefits generate economic growth—for every space-related R&D dollar that NASA spends, according to the agency, the government captures seven dollars in tax revenue as a result of the net gain in jobs and contracting activities.