In line with NASA's Spinoff Program, they have released 56 databases making them public domain material which are now free of use for anyone interested. Not only is this a patent-free release, the technologies can also be easily downloaded through NASA's searchable database according to Engadget.
At first, it may look like the private space technology companies will benefit most from the database such as SpaceX or RedWorks, but there are more to NASA technology than space functionality.
In fact, NASA dedicated a whole department to developing space technology for earth-borne purposes, and some of their projects were proven useful on Earth. Take for example the 'Miracle Suit' which is a modified version of the anti-gravity suit which can help stop postpartum hemorrhage with new born mothers.
NASA is also using their 3D mapping technologies to help researchers map new underwater islands formed through volcanic activities such as the one in the Kingdom of Tonga. This year, they also helped NCAR and CDC in mapping the possible route of the Zika-carrying mosquitoes in the US identifying the 'suitable' places where the mosquitoes could thrive. With these maps, the authorities and the public can have a head start in terms of preventing the spared of Zika virus in the country.
"By making these technologies available in the public domain, we are helping foster a new era of entrepreneurship that will again place America at the forefront of high-tech manufacturing and economic competitiveness. By releasing this collection into the public domain, we are encouraging entrepreneurs to explore new ways to commercialize NASA technologies" said Daniel Lockney, NASA's Technology Transfer program.
The database can be accessed from their official website. The purpose of this according to NASA, is to stimulate the innovation economy by giving the people free access to NASA's otherwise expensive technology portfolio.
The website states that no license agreement is required to utilize any technology downloaded from the database.