While building a home may not be considered “rocket science,” there are actually many components in a home that are products of NASA aerospace technology. They’ll be on display in “The Space Exploration House,” one of nine custom showcase homes on display in Tidewater Builders Association’s Spring Homearama in the Eagle’s Nest community in Virginia Beach May 28-June 12.

The home will be a hub of NASA activities, where all ages can learn about the spinoff benefits of space exploration research and how they affect our daily lives. Visitors will also get a chance to meet former astronaut Susan Kilrain, a veteran of more than 471 hours of space travel. The retired Navy commander will be on site to greet visitors on opening day, Saturday, May 28, from 2 to 4 p.m.

“I’m excited to be able to help spread awareness of how space technology is used in our homes,” said Robert M. Letchworth, builder of the theme home. “I didn’t realize how much of our daily lives have been affected by NASA research until I got involved in this project.”

While NASA does not manufacture, market or sell commercial products, a multitude of products are derived from NASA technology and adapted by private industry for use by consumers.

For instance, Letchworth will showcase a new insulation never before used in a Homearama home. Dubbed “aero gel,” this material has been used by astronauts to keep warm in subzero temperatures. It’s just now being developed as a home insulation product and can be seen in the garage of the home.

Also, Master Gardeners from Hampton have teamed with NASA to incorporate “biochar” into the soil of the landscaping. The material, created from plant matter, reduces the need for nitrogen and conserves water. It could also potentially reverse global warming if it can become economical for commercial or industrial development, said Doris Hamill, a business development manager in the Strategic Relationships Office at NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton. The Master Gardeners will demonstrate how to “cook” your own biochar on Saturday, May 28, at 1, 2 and 3 p.m.

A myriad of NASA-developed products exists throughout our households and NASA staff will be on hand to point them out at Homearama. Items ranging from the hand-held cordless vacuum to the air purifier in your refrigerator are products of NASA aerospace technology. Smoke detectors were first used to help detect toxic vapors in Skylab, the early Earth orbiting space station. They are now used in most homes and other buildings to warn of fire. Joystick controllers were developed as a controller for the Apollo Lunar Rover. They are now used for lots of things, including computer games and vehicles for people with disabilities.

NASA spacesuits will be on display throughout the event, and one will be modeled in the home every weekend. NASA will also host a space photo kiosk and hands-on activities for children.