In the grand scheme of things, humanity is a completely minuscule blip in a universe so incredibly large that it completely defies any attempt to grasp its enormity. There is no conceivable way for any human to fully understand the size of the universe. However, that isn’t about to stand in our way when it comes to exploring that vast expanse of mystery that we call space.
So, to allow ourselves to interact with and explore something so mind-bogglingly vast, we had to create many tools to help level the playing field. Fortunately, if there is one thing that humans are brilliant at, it is creating tools. This article aims to highlight some of the most interesting and useful tools that we, as a species, have created in order to explore the majestic expanse of space.
1. Information
When it comes to learning about space, there are few things that can help to illuminate and understand more than information. Raw data is not the most difficult thing to come by in reality. Tools from Seradata to telescopes can help to provide raw data about the universe. However, what matters when it comes to information is how we utilize that information.
This is what truly makes a scientist what they are. Astrophysicists, engineers, and everyone in between use this information to help explore and understand the nature of space. That is why information is so important.
2. The Computer
Of course, when it comes to utilizing information, access to a computer is one of the most important ways to ensure that you are able to make full use of the data at your fingertips.
In fact, computers are probably the single most important devices that have been turned to the task of understanding the cosmos. More important than any single innovation in human history. After all, no human could process data anywhere near as quickly as a computer can.
Of course, the scientists are still needed to actually give the result of that processing any kind of meaning or direction.
3. The People
Speaking of which, there is no tool as vital to the development of the space industry as the people who drive the research and experimentation. From scientists to entrepreneurs, people are the single most important tool that has ever been applied to humanity’s exploration of the stars.
4. Telescopes
When it comes to revolutionary innovations in the collection of data about space, there is nothing quite so historically instrumental as the telescope.
From its inception in 1608 all the way to the present day, telescopes have been an integral part of special research and learning about the universe.
5. Satellites
Finally, when it comes to collecting information, there are few devices that can outmatch a telescope for the information collected. A satellite is one of those devices.
Not only can a satellite theoretically collect far more information than a telescope, but they are also capable of far more than a telescope, from the collection and transmission of data to the observation of the earth itself.
