Several companies answered NASA's call for a device that could remotely detect and compensate for the slightest flaw in a telescope mirror. For one of those companies, the 3D imaging work opened a new avenue of innovation, and it partnered with a grocery store chain to create a "scan tunnel" that rapidly identifies products at checkout, letting customers with large purchases use self-checkout lanes.
After the Hubble Space Telescope arrived in space, it was discovered that its primary mirror had been ground incorrectly. Before sending up a replacement, the agency wanted to ensure it was accurate, so NASA held a "sense-off," in which several companies were invited to detect and correct slight defects in hidden mirrors. Only one company was accurate down to three thousandths of a wavelength of light.
Learn more about how NASA helped develop technology that impacts laser scanning within your city's grocery environment!