Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- resilient /ri-ZIL-yuhnt/
- imminent /IM-uh-nuhnt /
- embody /em-BOD-ee/
- pinpoint /PIN-point/
- indispensable /in-di-SPEN-suh-buhl /
[adjective] – able to recover quickly from challenges or setbacks
Despite facing financial difficulties, the company remained resilient and quickly adapted to the changing market demands.
[adjective] – coming or likely to happen very soon
The storm’s imminent arrival prompted residents to evacuate the coastal areas for safety.
[verb] – to represent a quality or an idea exactly
The sculpture beautifully embodies the spirit of freedom and resilience.
[adjective] – very exact
The detective used a pinpoint flashlight to carefully examine the crime scene, illuminating small details that would have otherwise gone unnoticed.
[adjective] – absolutely necessary; essential
Effective communication is indispensable in building strong and lasting relationships in both personal and professional spheres.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Japan prepares for a pioneering lunar mission led by JAXA, aiming to join nations with lunar spacecraft. The “Moon Sniper” probe is set for an unprecedented precision landing within 100 meters of its target, prioritizing lunar water exploration and assessing human habitation potential. Despite challenges, Japan is steadfast in expanding its space exploration role, collaborating strategically with the United States in response to China’s space advancements. JAXA, resilient and ambitious, seeks to contribute as an astronaut to the lunar landscape through NASA’s Artemis program. The ongoing mission, featuring the Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) probe, aims to showcase Japan’s high-precision technology, pivotal for future lunar exploration in challenging terrains. Success in this mission could grant Japan a strategic edge in global space endeavors.
The imminent 20-minute touchdown of the SLIM probe holds the potential to elevate Japan to the esteemed rank of the fifth nation to successfully land on the moon. The cutting-edge technology embodied by SLIM, encompassing pinpoint landing mechanisms and state-of-the-art near-infrared cameras, may metamorphose into indispensable instruments for the expansive domain of global space exploration. Despite Japan’s comparatively modest scale, its avant-garde capabilities categorize it as a pivotal participant in the intricate arena of lunar exploration. The prospective success of this mission could catalyze more economically viable and accessible lunar missions across the globe, facilitated by Japan’s adept lightweight probe manufacturing. Additionally, the incorporation of mini-probes developed by industry stalwarts such as Sony and Tomy, alongside contributions from Japanese academia, augments the landscape of advancements in the realm of space exploration.
The imminent 20-minute touchdown of the SLIM probe holds the potential to elevate Japan to the esteemed rank of the fifth nation to successfully land on the moon. The cutting-edge technology embodied by SLIM, encompassing pinpoint landing mechanisms and state-of-the-art near-infrared cameras, may metamorphose into indispensable instruments for the expansive domain of global space exploration. Despite Japan’s comparatively modest scale, its avant-garde capabilities categorize it as a pivotal participant in the intricate arena of lunar exploration. The prospective success of this mission could catalyze more economically viable and accessible lunar missions across the globe, facilitated by Japan’s adept lightweight probe manufacturing. Additionally, the incorporation of mini-probes developed by industry stalwarts such as Sony and Tomy, alongside contributions from Japanese academia, augments the landscape of advancements in the realm of space exploration.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever followed news or developments related to space exploration, such as missions to the moon or Mars? If yes, what aspects of these missions fascinate you, and why? If not, what might spark your interest in such endeavors?
- Do you think space exploration, especially lunar missions, is an essential endeavor for countries to pursue? Why or why not? If yes, what potential benefits do you see in these missions, and if not, what alternative priorities do you think countries should focus on?
- Do you believe that Japan’s lunar mission, specifically the precision landing attempt of the “Moon Sniper” probe, will significantly enhance the country’s standing in the global space exploration community?
- Given the technological advancements showcased in Japan’s lunar mission, how might the success or failure of this mission impact international collaboration in future space exploration efforts? Consider potential partnerships, competition, and the sharing of scientific knowledge.
- Reflecting on Japan’s pursuit of space exploration amidst setbacks, what role do you think resilience plays in the context of scientific and technological endeavors on a national level? How might a country’s ability to overcome challenges in space exploration contribute to its overall scientific prestige and influence?
Summarization
Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.
Describe:
Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.
- realm
- strategically
- unprecedented
- viable
- prospective