NASA recently released its 2008 edition of Spinoff, a publication that chronicles successfully commercialized NASA technology. They have a web site to go with the print version, and it’s an easy place to lose yourself for a few hours (trust me, I did it one night last week).
The 2008 issue features 50 “spinoffs” in the areas of health and medicine; transportation; public safety; computer technology; and more. My personal favorites were the spinoffs for less invasive (and less painful) dentistry equipment and for a more aerodynamic truck design. And, of course, you can’t forget the Speedo LZR Racer swimsuit that was all over the news earlier this year (or the man who modeled it — Michael Phelps).
And after you check out 2008, take a look back in the archives and at the mission-related spinoffs. Who knew how much NASA did for stock car racing? (Can you find a photo of Dale Earnhardt on the site? He’s not named in the caption, but I could spot that man from a mile away — may he rest in peace.)
Which spinoffs are your favorites? I’m interested to find out.