CONTACT LENSES FROM SPACE
Paragon Vision Sciences and Langley Research Center are conducting polymer research
in space for improved semi-rigid contact lenses.
Of the 51 million contact lens wearers in the world, 12 million must wear semi-rigid contact lenses. Soft lenses are known for their comfort. However, they are not durable, can tear and have greater risk of biological contamination. Hard lenses are more durable but cause eyes to dry out. Unfortunately, semi-rigid lenses with the comfort and breathability of soft lenses do not exist.
Samples prepared in space are more uniform and porous. This allows oxygen to pass through easier.
Results from space may be used to develop a new breed of rigidified contact lenses. These lenses may not only be more durable and more comfortable, but may “breathe” better, enabling long-term, comfortable, low-risk use.
Because of gravity, the material used for polymer research on Earth has settled to the bottom. In space, this same material remains dispersed, resulting in a better material to make contact lenses.
T h e E y e s H a v e I t