Technology
Aerogel-Based Thermal Insulation for High-Temperature Aerospace Applications
Quick fact
Aerogels are the lightest solid materials on Earth, with a silica aerogel holding the record for low density, often called 'liquid smoke' because of their translucent appearance.
Why this is interesting
Space shuttles and rockets face temperatures that can melt steel. How can a material that is 99% air protect them from that heat?