So-called space blankets, also known as emergency blankets, were first developed by NASA in 1964. The highly reflective insulators are often included in emergency kits and are also used by long-distance runners after finishing a race to avoid a large swing in body temperature. They have been incorporated into outdoor clothing and sleeping bags as well.
Read more: http://spinoff.nasa.gov/Spinoff2006/ch_9.html
Image credit: AFM Inc.