Although many people think of outer space as an unreachable realm, too far removed to have any effect on their daily life, I believe space activities are having a significant and beneficial influence on society. Obviously, technology derived from space ventures has had a major impact throughout the world. Initially, revolutionary technologies resulting from space were limited to space program spin-offs, such as Velcro, but now businesses have arisen which utilize space and depend upon space activities. Both GPS and satellite radio rely on space infrastructure, and resulting products have improved people’s lives both directly and indirectly. Although few people own GPS receivers, society has benefited from the improvements in the shipping industry fostered by satellite location technology.
Furthermore, I feel that activities in space have served to inspire generations of people. An increased awareness of math and science among space-minded youth can easily be linked to their desire to participate in space endeavors. Space has lead many children and adults to study and work harder in the hopes of taking part in space related activities and possibly traveling to space themselves. Even if the lure of space is farthest from their minds, hard working individuals have found employment in aerospace industries, and have thus been indirectly motivated by space. Furthermore, space has stimulated interest in non-technical fields. People study languages to communicate with those in other nations who share an interest in space. Individuals improve their writing skills to compose stories about mankind’s future in the cosmos.
Space activities are making outer space more accessible to society. Missions like Mars Express and the Mars Exploration Rovers have put another planet nearly within our reach. As a result, people have been motivated to try to allow humanity to explore even further, while the knowledge and technological advances achieved along the way are improving life on this planet.
Mr.
Marshal
Blessing
Associate
NASA Academy, Space Generation
Professional Category:
Engineering
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