Space blanket
Space blanket
A Space blanket (pronounced: /speɪs ˈblæŋkɪt/), also known as a Mylar blanket, thermal blanket, or emergency blanket, is a low-weight, low-bulk blanket made of heat-reflective thin plastic sheeting. They are used on the exterior surfaces of spacecraft for thermal control, as well as by people.
Etymology
The term "Space blanket" is derived from their usage in space travel, where the technology was first developed by NASA for the Apollo program. The blanket's design reduces heat loss in a person's body which would otherwise occur due to thermal radiation, water evaporation, or convection.
Usage
Space blankets are often included in first aid kits and are commonly used by marathon runners after finishing a race to avoid hypothermia from heat loss. They are also used in outdoor survival kits for use in emergencies, as they are designed to retain up to 90% of the user's body heat.
Related Terms
- Mylar: A type of polyester film patented in the 1950s by DuPont, and is used to make space blankets.
- Thermal blanket: A blanket designed to retain body heat in cold conditions.
- Emergency blanket: Another name for a space blanket, highlighting its use in emergency situations.
- First aid kit: A collection of supplies and equipment for use in giving first aid.
- Hypothermia: A medical emergency that occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can produce heat.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Space blanket
- Wikipedia's article - Space blanket
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