NIST’s Lasting Impact on Planes, Trains, and Automobiles
NIST’s legacy in transportation safety and innovation stretches back nearly a century, shaping the way Americans travel by air, rail, and road. In aviation, NIST (then the National Bureau of Standards) pioneered the first “blind landing” system in the 1930s, enabling pilots to land safely in poor visibility using radio beacons—a technology that laid the groundwork for modern instrument landing systems. Their research also addressed lightning protection for aircraft and continues today with advanced calibration tools for jet engines and fire safety simulations for aircraft interiors.
On the rails, NIST’s early work helped combat frequent and deadly train derailments by developing standardized reference materials for stronger, more reliable train wheels. The agency also played a key role in standardizing the colors of railroad signal lights, ensuring safer and more consistent communication for train operators.
In the automotive sector, NIST’s research has ranged from early, unconventional brake reaction tests to foundational studies on seat belt effectiveness that influenced safety regulations. In this informative and eye-lifting post, NIST tours and exhibits coordinator Riley Wilson explains how today, NIST is at the forefront of automotive innovation, exploring lightweight materials for improved fuel efficiency and developing standards for the safety and performance of self-driving vehicles. No matter the mode of transportation, NIST’s research continues to make travel safer and more reliable for everyone.
Read the full article on the NIST website.