Spin-offs from Space

• silver foil
• space blankets (= emergency blankets)
• multiple advances in computer technology
• fire-retardant metallic clothing used by fire-fighters
• nickel-titanium alloys, called nitinol, that are widely used in dental braces, dental drills
• radioactive smoke detectors
• nitrogen-driven ballpoint pens that can write upside down (Space Pen)
• advanced rockets
• advanced navigational equipment
• Earth-orbiting satellites
• improved long-range weapons
• cordless drills
• micro-miniaturization of electronic components for multiple applications, especially in computers, embedded silicon chips, cell phones and surgical implants
• tubular graphite technology for aerials (and fishing rods on Earth)
• carbon fibre tube technology
• advanced solar panels
• desiccated and freeze-dried foods
• bar codes and bar code scanners
• mechanism for the insulin pump (from the Viking Programme)
• advanced robotics
• advanced gyroscopes
• human gyroscope
• advanced laser beam technology
• computer-enhanced imagery
• advanced telecommunications
• rocket-powered chair
• dry ice industrial cleaning methods
• image enhancement in medical photography
• fog-free visors for skiers and mountaineers
• improved underwater habitats, submersibles and diving suits
• thermal clothing
• kidney dialysis machine
• high-strength adhesives
• cheap electronic calculators
• global telephone links
• water-cooled suits for racing drivers
• powdered drinks
• rechargeable pacemakers for weak hearts
• various human physiology monitors
• fast and accurate detectors of harmful micro-organisms in the air
• satellite imagery of the Earth and other planets and moons
• three-dimensional mapping techniques of the human body
• digital displays on watches
• stay-dry insoles on sports shoes
• satellite-generated research and teaching aids on global environmental resources
• shock-absorbing foam on sports gear
• miniaturized video cameras
• inspirational Space-themed postage stamps, including stamps issued by countries that are not involved in the Space programme but which celebrate the achievements of humankind.

but not, apparently, the teflon-coated, non-stick frying pan, as widely rumoured!

And, more generally:

• focus humankind's aspirations on positive goals
• provide opportunities for women, and scientists and technologists from smaller countries, to participate in international scientific programmes
• space tourism
• refutation of myths about Space, extraterrestrials, UFOs and astrology
• increased opportunities to be technologically creative
• increased understanding of the functioning of our planet and the factors theatening her
• permanent monitoring of the 'health' of our planet
• greater appreciation of the fragility of our planet, and her uniqueness
• increased understanding of our solar system and beyond
• placement of telescopes (such as the Hubble Telescope) beyond our atmosphere to increase our understanding of deep space
• increased understanding of the origin of the universe
• promotion of public understanding of the benefits and excitement of science and technology
• opportunities for rural development as Space exploration and astronomy facilities are often located in remote rural areas, such as Sutherland in SA and French Guiana in South America
• greatly enhanced international collaboration in science and technology
• and, of course, vast industries in space toys, games, books, magazines, art works, music, sweets, fashion accessories and videos
• and a massive number of jobs and revenue!