The use of gold is not constrained just to our little planet, gold is beneficial to the whole universe.

Do you need a pair of gold-plated sunglasses? Possibly if you’re about to film a rap video. Alternatively, you may need some gold eye accessories if you’re about to go to space!

Gold has a very important role to play in space travel. There’s no expense spared when NASA gets you kitted up as an astronaut since gold is used in the visor of the helmet. But it’s not a fashion statement, gold is actually becoming the go-to metal for advanced technology.

What makes gold space-ready?

On Earth, we are protected from infrared radiation by the atmosphere. In space, astronauts do not have that luxury. Gold reflects radiation similarly to copper, aluminium and silver. But unlike its competitors, it goes one step better by absorbing visible light. This means that the astronaut doesn’t get blinded by the glare of reflection. Squinting in space is never a good look.

Another reason for using gold is its natural resistance to corrosion. It doesn’t rust or tarnish in the way other metals do, meaning it is easier and cheaper to maintain.

Gold goes intergalactic

Gold isn’t just restricted to astronaut’s helmets, it’s being used to protect all sorts of space-related equipment. For example, gold-plated mylar blankets are used to cover many spacecraft and satellites. And the $1.5 billion Hubble telescope? This famous contraption is also coated in the gold stuff.

So, the use of gold is not constrained just to our little planet, gold is beneficial to the whole universe. Researchers are seeing the potential of the celestial properties of gold, making it a significant resource in the technology of the future.