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Spinoff story
Photorefraction Screens Millions for Vision Disorders
A real-world story of NASA technology finding a life beyond the mission.
About this technology
Overview
Marshall Space Flight Center scientists adapted optics technology for eye screening methods using a process called photorefraction, using a camera system prototype with a specifically angled telephoto lens and flash to photograph a subject's eye. In 1991, NASA transferred the exclusive license for the system to Vision Research Corporation, of Birmingham, Alabama, and over 3 million children have been screened for vision disorders since.