Stranger in a Strange Land by Robert Heinlein:
Science Fiction Inventions, Technology and Ideas

Remarkable novel about the life of Valentine Michael Smith, born during the first mission to explore Mars. Educated by Martians, he is helpless when returned to Earth. Or is he? Tutored by Jubal Harshaw (a classic Heinlein character) he develops into an extraordinary person. Winner of the 1962 Hugo Award; this story is not for children. Select an invention:

Grok - a Martian sees and knows
To understand fully; become one with (from the Martial verb "to drink").

Jump Harness - rocket pack
A device small enough to be worn as a backpack, that gave booster power for jumping.

Living Grass Carpet - not AstroTurf
An indoor area covered with grass, in the manner of a carpet.

Lyle Drive
Propulsion system for use inside the solar system.

Reading Machine - read while reclining
A projector which showed text on a screen or the ceiling for easy reading.

Screensaver (Inventor of) - the original idea
Screen savers are used to prevent phosphor burnout in CRTs, and to provide restful entertainment on computer screens.

Stereo Tank - 3D TV receiver
A receiver for three-dimensional televised images.

Stereovision Tank - 3D TV tank (and first screen saver)
Three dimensional mass media (the grandson of television).

Waterbed (Hydraulic Bed) - a waterbed
A bed that uses water instead of springs and stuffing.

 

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