The technology behind cordless hand-held vacuums and some power tools was derived from portable, battery-operated drills used to extract samples on the moon's surface. The private-industry innovations used today in the technology stemmed from NASA’s request for lightweight, energy-efficient, self-powering equipment to provide greater mobility and speed for astronauts performing time-critical operations in space.
Among the most important tasks performed by Apollo astronauts on the moon was collection of lunar rock and soil for later analysis on Earth. For a comprehensive look at the moon's crust, scientists wanted subsurface samples. This necessitated development of a special lunar drill capable of extracting core samples from as much as 10 feet below the surface. The job of developing the drill was entrusted to The Black & Decker Manufacturing Company, which used the technology it developed in the design of later consumer products.
Learn more about how NASA helped develop technology that impacts portable cordless vacuums within your home's kitchen environment!