Pre-reading questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- What comes to mind when you hear the word asteroid?
- What do you think asteroids are made of?
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- investigate /in-VES-ti-geyt /
- chaos /KEY-os/
- darkness /DAHRK-nis/
- closely /KLOW-slee/
- encounter /en-KOUN-ter/
[verb] – to examine a crime, problem, statement, etc. carefully, especially to discover the truth
The detective was called to investigate the mysterious disappearance of the valuable painting from the art gallery.
[noun] – a state of total confusion with no order
After the earthquake, the city was in chaos with buildings collapsed and roads blocked.
[noun] – the quality of being without light, or a situation in which there is little or no light
In the darkness of the night, the stars shone brightly in the sky.
[adverb] – in a way that is directly connected or has a strong relationship
The two companies closely collaborated on a project to develop a new product.
[noun] – a meeting, especially one that happens by chance
Their chance encounter at the café led to a deep and lasting friendship.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
NASA’s OSIRIS-REx mission, now known as OSIRIS-APEX, is preparing to investigate Apophis, a celestial object named after the ancient Egyptian god of chaos and darkness. This mission is scheduled for approximately 5 ½ years from now, when Apophis will approach within 20,000 miles of Earth on April 13, 2029. OSIRIS-APEX, short for Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, and Security-APophis Explorer, will closely orbit Apophis for 18 months, aided by Earth’s gravity. The primary purposes are to conduct scientific research and enhance Earth’s defense mechanisms against potential asteroid threats. Although OSIRIS-APEX won’t collect samples from Apophis like its predecessor did with Bennu, it will employ gas thrusters to stir up dust and rocks for study. Comparing Apophis, an S-type asteroid, to Bennu’s C-type composition will provide valuable insights into stony asteroid structure and potential impacts on Earth, contributing to planetary defense strategies.
Dani DellaGiustina, OSIRIS-APEX’s principal investigator, notes that Apophis is a well-known asteroid. While initial concerns about an impact in 2029 have been dispelled, Apophis will make an incredibly close approach, coming within one-tenth the distance between Earth and the moon, a unique scientific observation opportunity. During the 2029 encounter, people in Europe and Africa will even be able to spot Apophis with the naked eye. Continuous monitoring of Apophis will supply essential data about its orbit, surface, and rotation rate, ensuring Earth’s safety from potential future asteroid impacts.
Dani DellaGiustina, OSIRIS-APEX’s principal investigator, notes that Apophis is a well-known asteroid. While initial concerns about an impact in 2029 have been dispelled, Apophis will make an incredibly close approach, coming within one-tenth the distance between Earth and the moon, a unique scientific observation opportunity. During the 2029 encounter, people in Europe and Africa will even be able to spot Apophis with the naked eye. Continuous monitoring of Apophis will supply essential data about its orbit, surface, and rotation rate, ensuring Earth’s safety from potential future asteroid impacts.
Comprehension questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.
- What is the name of the mission that will study Apophis, and what was the mission previously called?
- Who is Apophis named after, and what are some characteristics associated with this celestial object?
- When is the scheduled time for the Apophis mission, and how close will Apophis come to Earth during this time?
- What is the primary purpose of the OSIRIS-APEX mission, and how long will it orbit Apophis?
- What method will OSIRIS-APEX use to study Apophis, and why is this mission important for Earth’s safety?
Discussion questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever looked up at the night sky and wondered about the mysteries of space, like the study of asteroids such as Apophis? If yes, what aspects of space exploration intrigue you? If not, can you imagine how learning about the study of asteroids and their potential impact on Earth might pique your interest in space and planetary defense?
- Have you ever visited a science museum or watched documentaries about space exploration? If yes, did any of the exhibits or content related to asteroids or space missions like OSIRIS-APEX catch your attention? If not, can you imagine how such experiences might shape your interest in celestial objects and space exploration?
- Do you believe that space exploration missions like OSIRIS-APEX are essential for advancing our understanding of celestial objects and ensuring Earth’s safety from potential asteroid threats?
- How do you think the information gathered from studying asteroids like Apophis can benefit humanity beyond scientific research, and what are some practical applications you can envision?
- If you were a scientist involved in the OSIRIS-APEX mission, what additional questions or experiments would you want to pursue to gain a deeper understanding of Apophis and its potential impact on Earth? How might this information be used to enhance planetary defense strategies?