Japan aims for lunar success with the ‘Moon Sniper’ landing mission

admin 2024年3月4日

Beginner

Japan News, japan news - beginner

Pre-reading questions:

I will read each question. Then, please answer them.

講師がそれぞれの質問を読むので答えましょう。

Have you heard anything about a recent mission where a spacecraft or astronauts were sent to the moon?
Do you think it’s important for countries to invest in exploring the moon?

Vocabulary:

I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.

単語、意味、例文を読みます。講師に続いて音読しましょう。

agency /EY-juhn-see/

[noun] – an organization or company that provides a specific service or works toward a particular goal.
The environmental agency is responsible for protecting our natural resources.

display /dih-SPLEY/

[noun] – a presentation or exhibition of something to attract attention or showcase achievements
The science fair had an impressive display of student projects showcasing innovative ideas.

despite /dih-SPAHYT/

[preposition] – in spite of; without being affected by.
Despite the rain, we had a great time at the outdoor concert.

leader /LEE-der/

[noun] – a person or thing that leads or directs
He was a prominent leader in the civil rights movement.

support /suh-PAWRT/

[noun] – assistance, backing, or aid provided to contribute to the success or advancement of a cause, idea, group, or endeavor
The team’s success was possible due to the strong support from their dedicated fans.

Article reading:

Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.

記事を音読しましょう。講師はあなたの発音とイントネーションを確認します。

Japan is getting ready for an important mission to the moon, led by JAXA, the space agency. This mission, known as “Moon Sniper,” is set to take place soon and aims to make Japan a key player in lunar exploration. The goal is to land a spacecraft very precisely, within just 100 meters of the target. The mission focuses on exploring water on the moon and checking if people could live there. Japan is working closely with the United States as part of a strategy to keep up with China in space exploration. JAXA also hopes to send a Japanese astronaut to the moon through NASA’s Artemis program. Japan’s advanced technology is on display with the ongoing Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) probe mission, which could make Japan the fifth country to land on the moon. The SLIM probe’s short 20-minute landing could show off Japan’s advanced technology and make it a significant player in lunar exploration. Despite its smaller size, Japan’s expertise in making lightweight probes could lead to more affordable lunar missions globally. Collaboration with industry leaders like Sony and Tomy, along with support from Japanese academics, is helping advance space exploration.

True or False:

Read the sentences and identify if they are true or false based on the article.

文章を読んで、記事に基づいて正誤を答えましょう。

The mission led by JAXA is known as “Moon Sniper.”
The goal of the mission is to land a spacecraft within 100 meters of the target.
The primary focus of the mission is to explore water on the moon and assess the potential for human habitation.
Japan is collaborating closely with China in space exploration.
The SLIM probe’s 20-minute landing could make Japan the third country to land on the moon.

Fill in the blanks:

Choose the correct word from the table then fill in the blanks.

適切な言葉を選んで空欄を埋めましょう。

agency

display

despite

leader

support

The new smartphone features a stunning high-resolution screen that is a true __________ of cutting-edge technology.
__________ facing financial challenges, the small business managed to thrive and expand its services.
The local community gathered to show their__________for the school’s fundraising efforts, contributing both time and resources.
The travel __________ arranged a memorable tour for the group, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.
As a team __________, she led her colleagues with vision and inspiration, guiding them to success.