Pre-reading questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- What could cause astronauts to become stranded in space?
- Why is it important for astronauts to stay calm during emergencies in space?
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- problem /PROB-luhm/
- engineer /en-juh-NEER/
- leak /leek/
- operational /op-uh-REY-shuh-nl/
- examine /ig-ZAM-in/
[noun] – a situation that needs to be dealt with or solved
They are working hard to fix the problem with the spacecraft’s engine.
[noun] – a person who designs or builds things
The engineer checked the spacecraft’s systems to make sure they were working.
[noun] – a hole or crack through which something can escape
They found a leak in the spacecraft’s fuel tank.
[adjective] – in working order
The spacecraft must be fully operational before it can return to Earth.
[verb] – to look at something closely to understand it better
Scientists will examine the spacecraft for any signs of damage.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Two astronauts are still stranded in space because of technical problems with their spacecraft, even though they were supposed to return to Earth several weeks ago. The astronauts launched a new space capsule last month, but they have faced a series of issues, including helium leaks and thruster failures. These problems have caused a major delay, pushing their return to the end of July. Originally, their mission was planned to last only eight days, but it has been extended because of these unexpected setbacks.
Despite these challenges, the astronauts remain confident that their spacecraft will return them home safely. Engineers are currently working on fixing the spacecraft’s propulsion system, which failed while approaching the space station. They are also investigating the helium leaks, which might be due to faulty seals within the spacecraft. Recent weather disruptions have slowed some testing procedures, but the spacecraft is still able to return in an emergency if needed. The main goal of the ongoing tests is to ensure that all systems on the spacecraft are fully operational before the next mission. The situation is being carefully examined to solve the technical problems and ensure that similar issues do not occur in future space flights.
Despite these challenges, the astronauts remain confident that their spacecraft will return them home safely. Engineers are currently working on fixing the spacecraft’s propulsion system, which failed while approaching the space station. They are also investigating the helium leaks, which might be due to faulty seals within the spacecraft. Recent weather disruptions have slowed some testing procedures, but the spacecraft is still able to return in an emergency if needed. The main goal of the ongoing tests is to ensure that all systems on the spacecraft are fully operational before the next mission. The situation is being carefully examined to solve the technical problems and ensure that similar issues do not occur in future space flights.
Comprehension questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.
- Why are the astronauts still stranded in space?
- How long was the astronauts’ mission originally planned to last?
- What kind of technical issues have caused delays in the astronauts’ return?
- What are engineers currently working on to fix the spacecraft?
- How have recent weather disruptions affected the spacecraft’s testing procedures?
Discussion questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever faced a challenging situation where you had to find a solution quickly? If so, what was the situation, and how did you handle it? If not, what do you think you would do in such a situation?
- Do you think astronauts need special training to handle emergencies in space? If so, what kind of training do you think would be important? If not, why do you think basic training would be sufficient?
- Do you agree that it is essential to thoroughly test spacecraft before missions?
- How might the delay caused by technical problems affect future space missions, and what can be done to minimize these effects?
- In what ways might the experience of being stranded in space influence the astronauts’ perspectives on space travel and exploration?