T.O.C.: Space Exploration Benefits Society

LESSON 1.4

• Advanced technology to meet space exploration challenges

• Advances knowledge in other fields, such as physics (like how gravity works)

• The study of other worlds can teach us more about our own. By comparing Earth to other worlds we can learn more about how our own planet has changed over the years. (Earth’s atmosphere & surface features for example)

• Surface Features: exploring other worlds helps us learn about impacts of space objects b/c other planets have more evidence due to lack of wind & water

• Impact craters(w.w)- round pit left behind when an object strikes the surface of a larger object in space and explodes

• Earth has little evidence of impact craters b/c Earth’s surface is constantly changing

• Atmosphere: we can see how liquid water has affected Earth’s atmosphere by comparing Earth to planets / no liquid water (Mars, Venus)

• Can also study the energy Earth receives from the Sun. Changes visible on the Sun’s surface may have caused periods of cooling in Earth’s atmosphere

HOW DOES EXPLORING SPACE BENEFIT SOCIETY?

SPACE TECHNOLOGY HAS PRACTICAL USES• Space exploration has provided us w/ technology that makes life on Earth easier. You benefit each day

from some material/product developed for space programs.

• 1 of the most important benefits: Satellite Technology- collect data from every region of our planet. Data is sent to receivers on Earth & changed to images

• Weather satellites show conditions throughout Earth’s atmosphere. Weather images from space improve weather forecasting. Scientists now provide warnings of dangerous storms before they hit. (like hurricanes)

• Other satellites collect images of Earth’s surface to show how it is being changed by human impact and natural events. Also used for wildlife preservation, conservation of natural resources, and mapping.

• Technology Spinoffs- technology created by NASA for space is used in different/new ways by people everyday.

• Design techniques for small, lightweight technology needed for space crafts has been duplicated for diagnostic machines & devices that help overcome disabilities

• Materials & parts need to endure harsh conditions led to fire-resistant materials worn by firefighters & devices that allow firefighters to avoid smoke inhalation injuries

• Systems developed for purifying air, water, and food in space craft & space stations now help protect/benefit people on Earth as well.

1.4 REVIEW QUESTIONS WORTH 5 POINTS

1. How has space exploration helped us learn about impacts of space objects on Earth?

2. How do satellites provide images of Earth’s surface and atmosphere?

3. Give 2 examples of technology we use on Earth that is a result of space exploration.

4. Hurricanes form in the middle of the ocean. Why would satellites be useful in tracking hurricanes?