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Originally Posted by Chrissyo
That story isn't actually true. I believe the space-pen was developed by an independent company, not NASA (though NASA may have invested some money into it). The reason is, NASA didn't want to use pencils for risk that the shavings would clog/ruin the air circulation systems (something which the Soviets didn't worry about because they used a more heavy duty air system (if I remember correctly), and they were always a bit rougher with things like this as compared to NASA).
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Yep - It was the Fisher Space Pen company that developed the pen, not NASA - at all. I'm a collector of these fine instruments - one of which I use every day. Pencil shavings were considered a (possibly big) problem for the finer tolerances that NASA built into its systems. An even bigger problem than wood shavings was the graphite powder produced. Now - if only that pesky graphite wasn't so darn conductive...... Jeez - aren't the Americans silly for trying to think about the potential electrical problems that could occur a little more than the Russians?
Quote:
Originally Posted by Chrissyo
This just seems to be another one of those "Lol, stupid America!" stories that everyone likes to tell due to the current popularity (or lack thereof) of America.
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With all due respect all, it is getting very boring..... The Americans have, and will have, more phenomenal achievements than any other country on the planet in this area of endeavour. They have put more effort in than anyone - so why should we begrudge them their well-earned pride? Good on us Aussies - the tall poppy syndrome is as alive as ever.
