How NASA Space Exploration Technology Makes Big Difference in Small Business

Inside Compass Coffee in Washington, DC

Inside Compass Coffee in Washington, DC Flickr user Ted Eytan

The same tech that helps astronauts in space can assist in brewing a great cup of java.

Compass Coffee, a small coffee shop in Washington, D.C., has an out-of-this world secret that helps it gain an edge on the competition. 

Located in the Shaw neighborhood, the shop, owned by former Marines Harrison Suarez and Michael Haft, uses NASA-patented technology to help improve its coffee. 

NASA engineers developed proportional integral derivative controllers to design life-support systems for astronauts. Suarez and Haft use the same technology to keep Compass Coffee's roasts consistent and to ensure quality espresso shots.

"It makes my life better when I drink a really good cup of coffee," NASA Administrator Charles Bolden said. "And to know that NASA technology was involved in making this cup and adding to its quality, I'm a happy camper."

Check out the space age coffee tech in action in the video below: