Multi-layer insulation (MLI) creates the shiny crinkled gold and silver foil look on spacecraft and space equipment. MLI helps protect...

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a colorless, odorless gas essential for life on Earth. CO2 is both a natural component of the atmosphere and a...

Mars Curiosity Rover is one of NASA's most ambitious projects, hailed as an optimal feat of science and engineering. Far overreaching its...

Super alloys have unique combinations of strength, corrosion resistance and high-temperature stability. Made primarily with nickel,...

Solar energy and nuclear power are the two major forms of energy in space. Solar panels are familiar on satellites and spacecraft....

De-orbiting is the controlled descent and re-entry of satellites into Earth’s atmosphere. Methods include propulsion systems and solar...

Space debris is human made. It includes discarded rocket stages, defunct satellites and tiny fragments created by collisions and...

Astronauts on long-duration missions rely on water (H2O) for drinking, hygiene, food preparation, and oxygen generation by electrolysis....

Oxygen makes up 21% of the atmosphere. In the vacuum of space there is no atmosphere. Oxygen is created by electrolysis of water, solid...

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries power phones, laptops, electric vehicles, satellites and spacecraft. Rechargeable energy storage devices,...

Particularly solar panels and batteries help provide reliable power for spacecraft and satellites. Without terrestrial resources, space...

Lithium (Li) is a soft, silvery-white metal. Famous for rechargeable batteries, lithium is important to sectors like health and...

Metalloproteins are biomolecules containing metal ions. From transporting oxygen and cell signals to catalyzing chemical reactions,...

Drone warfare uses advanced robotics technology to inflict destruction in various ways. It represents a paradigm shift in military...

Building robots is a mix of engineering, technology, and creativity. Metals and plastics are the standout choices for roboticists....

Silicone is strongly integrated into modern technology. From kitchen to electronics and self-healing robots, silicone is a human made...

Phytochemicals are chemical compounds created by plants. They can enhance a plant's color, flavor, and aroma and provide defense systems...

Yeast is a one-celled highly complex creature. Its major enzymes maltase, invertase, and zymase help convert sugars into alcohol and...

The Maillard reaction is a process in browning and flavor enhancement for food such as chicken, steak, bread and roast marshmallows. As...

Molybdenum (Mo) is a chemical element of great importance to nature, industry and health. A transition metal, molybdenum is also an...