Space Exploration Essay

In 1993, Quantum Devices Inc. (QDI) teamed with WCSAR (Wisconsin Center for Space Automation and Robotics), a NASA center for the commercial development of space, developed High Emissivity Aluminiferous Light-emitting Substrate technology to provide high-intensity, solid-state LED lighting systems for NASA Space Shuttle plant growth experiments. Their goal was to be able to grow plants in space so humans could have longer stays in space shuttles or the International Space Station (ISS). They discovered that specific LED wavelengths could boost the energy metabolism of cells to advance plant growth and photosynthesis. The development was a success and a line of LED products that emit the exact wavelength of light that plants use in photosynthesis was produced. After the plant growing LEDs were a success, the QDI conducted research on the effectiveness of the broad-spectrum diodes in medical applications in the hope that LEDs would not only yield medical benefits on Earth, but that they would help to stem the loss of bone and muscle mass in astronauts, which occurs during long periods of weightlessness. “In addition to promoting cell growth, the red LEDs are capable of activating light-sensitive, tumor-treating drugs that, when injected intravenously, could completely destroy cancer cells while leaving surrounding tissue virtually untouched.”(1) After further research they successfully altered the probe for pediatric brain tumors and the prevention of oral mucositis (a common side effect of chemotherapy and radiation treatments) in pediatric bone marrow transplant patients at the Medical College of Wisconsin. After positive trial results, QDI went on to develop the WARP 10 (Warfighter Accelerated Recovery by Photobiomodulation) hand-held device. The WARP 10 provided temporary relief of minor muscle and joint pain, arthritis, stiffness, and muscle spasms when placed on area of treatment need. This therapy was approved by the FDA and QDI was inducted into the