Yes! But we have Velcro and Tang now!
Who knows what other wonders await us... <\s>
Attempting to explore space is one of the more noble things that man has ever done, or will ever do. Why? Because we are doing it merely because we want to
know, we want to
see. It is kind of like art: whether there is a practical purpose for it or not, it is a sign of a people who are concerned with more than mere existence. And, as it is also one of the more difficult things mankind has ever attempted, it also produces a much greater number of technological developments than velcro (apparently Tang was NOT a space program invention).
Here is a list of some of those inventions:
http://spaceplace.nasa.gov/en/kids/spinoffs2.shtml
TV Satellite Dish
Medical Imaging
Ear Thermometer
Fire Fighter Equipment
Smoke Detector
Sun Tiger Glasses
Automobile Design Tools
Cordless Tools
Aerodynamic Bicycle Wheel
Thermal Gloves and Boots
Shock Absorbing Helmets
Invisible Braces
Joystick Controllers
Advanced Plastics