AH, the age-old question: is the space program a colossal waste of money?

Do you think the money could be better spent here on planet Earth?

You may not be aware of it, but the space program has developed over a thousand spinoffs that directly, or indirectly, benefit humanity.

In fact, you probably used a dozen of them today!

Take Teflon, for example.

While not directly a result of space research, Teflon became a household name thanks to its use in spacecraft.

The same goes for memory foam – the stuff that makes your Tempur-Pedic mattress so irresistibly comfortable was originally designed to cushion astronauts during launch.

So, next time you sink into your bed, thank a rocket scientist.

Let’s not forget about the tiny gadgets we can’t live without – our smartphones.

The satellites orbiting Earth, ensuring we can send selfies across the globe in an instant, wouldn’t be there without space exploration.

GPS? A gift from space technology.

Satellite TV? Yup, that too.

Basically, every time you use your phone to navigate to the nearest coffee shop or stream cat videos, you’re reaping the benefits of decades of space research.

And what about the internet itself?

While Al Gore may not have actually invented it, the global network we depend on owes a lot to space-based communication advancements.

Without NASA’s early work in satellite technology, we’d be stuck with dial-up or, even worse, having actual face-to-face conversations. Terrifying, right?

But space exploration isn’t just about convenience and comfort.

It’s about saving lives.

Many of the medical technologies we rely on today have their roots in space research.

Take the heart pump, for instance.

NASA engineers developed a device based on space shuttle fuel pumps that has since saved countless lives.

And let’s not forget about advanced imaging technologies like MRI and CAT scans, which have their origins in space-related research.

Then there’s the little matter of climate change.

Ever heard of Landsat?

It’s the longest-running enterprise for acquiring satellite images of Earth.

Launched by NASA in 1972, this program has been crucial in monitoring deforestation, urban sprawl, and the effects of natural disasters.

If you care about the future of our planet (and you should), then you’ve got to give a nod to the space program for helping us keep an eye on things down here.

And let’s not forget about solar power.

NASA’s research into harnessing the sun’s energy for space missions has paved the way for the solar panels now adorning rooftops across the world.

So, while you’re feeling all eco-friendly, charging your devices with solar power, remember that it’s space exploration that made it possible.

Want a better weather forecast? Thank a satellite.

Want to order a pizza with your phone? Thank you, satellite.

Want to use GPS to find that elusive parking spot?

You guessed it, thank a satellite!

Remember that scratch-resistant watch you wear? Yep, space tech.

The tiny cameras in your phone?

Thank NASA, space-derived technology, all the way.

Finally, on the Space Station, NASA has developed technology that converts human urine and grey washing water into safe drinking water.

True! The spinoffs for developing countries with polluted streams and rivers are enormous!

So, is space a waste of money?

Sure, if you consider modern medicine, global communication, environmental monitoring, and technological innovation to be frivolous expenditures.

But if you’re like most people – who enjoy living longer, being more connected, and sleeping on a comfy mattress – then maybe, just maybe, the space program is worth every penny.

In fact, this might just be one of the best investments we’ve ever made.

Because while the stars may be out of reach for most of us, the benefits of exploring them are right here in our hands. So, let’s keep looking up – who knows what wonders we’ll discover next and what earthly delights they’ll bring.

Are you a NASA convert now?

Remember, for every one dollar spent on the space program, $7 to $14 is returned back into the economy.

That’s not a bad investment.

Visit Dave’s website: www.davereeneke.com.

By Dave RENEKE, Astronomer