Space Shuttle Using Parts Bought On eBay

(Mis)Uses of Technology

from the we-knew-it-was-useful-for-something dept

NASA built the space shuttle a long time ago using state of the art parts. Well, obviously, over the years the state of the art has advanced quite a bit, but the space shuttles are still the same. So, where does NASA go to pick up replacement parts? Apparently, eBay and Yahoo’s auction site are their shopping venues of choice (though, admittedly, these are for servicing and support gear – and not the shuttle itself). They’re trying to hoard older computer parts, like the old 8086 chip. They say they’re only buying in bulk, so it’s unlikely they’ll want your junked PC that’s been collecting dust in the basement.