Lesson 2: TECHNOLOGY for space exploration
Learning Goal: to learn about technology for space exploration using the internet. B: 4.5 A: 5
Humans have been in space lots of times. We can also use probes* and unmanned spacecraft to study bodies. We can use artificial satellites* for purposes like communication and mapping.
Columbia was the first space shuttle to be launched. It was launched in 1981 and has completed 125+ missions. Most missions travel to the International Space Station. The Space Shuttles have 2 solid fuel boosters that help it reach orbit. They then, after 2 minutes, detach and splash in the ocean. We can reuse both the rockets and the shuttle again, which is convenient.
There are disadvantages to going to space.
1. Astronauts must exercise daily.
2. You have to strap in yourself into bed.
3. Unpleasant restroom (please do not let me get into details).
4. Aches and pains from spinal stretching.
Telescopes are very useful in space because the atmosphere may add a haze and block some light types. We have many observatories in space right now. one of the most famous is the Hubble Space Telescope.
Columbia was the first space shuttle to be launched. It was launched in 1981 and has completed 125+ missions. Most missions travel to the International Space Station. The Space Shuttles have 2 solid fuel boosters that help it reach orbit. They then, after 2 minutes, detach and splash in the ocean. We can reuse both the rockets and the shuttle again, which is convenient.
There are disadvantages to going to space.
1. Astronauts must exercise daily.
2. You have to strap in yourself into bed.
3. Unpleasant restroom (please do not let me get into details).
4. Aches and pains from spinal stretching.
Telescopes are very useful in space because the atmosphere may add a haze and block some light types. We have many observatories in space right now. one of the most famous is the Hubble Space Telescope.
We can use unmanned spacecraft for a lot of things. the biggest reason is for data analysis and samples. It is much safer to use, and it is more cost-effective, making it the much more common choice. One popular example is Cassini, which is stationed by Saturn and launched Huygens, whose battery died after just minutes.
We could not use probes and other spacecraft without computers. We would not be able to receive information, we would not be able to control conditions on the spacecraft either. Computers are essential for space travel.
We could not use probes and other spacecraft without computers. We would not be able to receive information, we would not be able to control conditions on the spacecraft either. Computers are essential for space travel.
Satellites have lots of uses. A few examples are: Remote-sensing, weather, navigation, communication, and military. Remote-Sensing satellites are used to study things on Earth's surface. Navigation is well, navigation. They use microwave signals to communicate with the receivers. Military satellites can detect missile launches and cargo. Weather satellites, obviously, predict the weather.
Vocabulary
Probe |
An unmanned spacecraft used to gather data about objects in space. |
Artificial Satellite |
A man-made object that orbits a celestial body. |