Some people wonder why countries spend millions of dollars on space projects. They want to know how space research helps people on Earth. Actually, space technology helps people on Earth every day. This is called “spinoff technology”. Spinoff technology is space technology that is now used on Earth.
In early space programs, such as the Apollo missions(任务) of the 1960s and 1970s, and in the space shuttle missions today, scientists developed objects for the astronauts to use on the moon and in space. We now use some of these objects every day. For example, we have Quartz clocks and watches with an accuracy of one minute a year. We purify the water we drink with a water filter(过滤器) designed for the astronauts' use in space. The cordless, hand-held tools we use in our homes, such as cleaners, flashlights, drills, and irons came from the technology of these early space programs.
On cold winter days, we can stay warm with battery - operated shoes and socks, and insulated(绝缘的) coats and jackets. All of these clothes are similar to the spacesuit designs that keep astronauts comfortable in the temperatures of the moon, and are spinoffs from space technology.
These products are only a few examples of the many ways space technology helps us in our everyday life. No one knows how new spinoff technology from the International Space Station will help us in the future.
【小题1】Which of the following is NOT a spinoff?A.Water filters | B.Quartz watches | C.Battery- operated socks | D.Spacesuits worn by astronauts |
A.light | B.clean | C.bright | D.warm |
A.Future of Space Technology | B.History of Spinoffs | C.Spinoff Technology | D.Space Projects |
A.believes that space technology will be widely used on Earth |
B.doubts if spinoffs have any good effect on human beings |
C.agrees to do more research on spinoff technology |
D.suggests using more spinoffs in our daily life |