NASA (41A: Org. that developed the space blanket) Space blankets are also known as Mylar blankets, emergency blankets, and foil blankets. NASA developed space blankets in 1964. The blankets reflect 97% of radiated heat, and are designed to be resistant to a hostile space environment. Space blankets are commonly included in first aid and survival kits because they are waterproof and windproof. I associate space blankets with marathons, as they are often given to marathon runners at the end of races.