Pre-reading questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- If you could go on a long space mission, what do you think would be the most exciting part? Why?
- What skills do you think astronauts need to stay calm and focused during long missions?
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- groundbreaking /GROUND-brey-king/
- underscore /UHN-der-skawr/
- prolonged /pruh-LAWNGD/
- insight /IN-sahyt /
- extensively /ik-STEN-siv-lee/
[adjective] – innovative; introducing new and important changes
The scientist made a groundbreaking discovery in the field of medicine.
[verb] – to emphasize or highlight something
The teacher underscored the importance of studying every day.
[adjective] – lasting for a long time
They experienced prolonged delays due to bad weather.
[noun] – a clear understanding of something
The book gave me an insight into the life of a famous artist.
[adverb] – in a way that covers a large area or involves a lot of details
The team has studied the topic extensively.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
NASA’s space operations continue to advance, with astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams playing a significant role in a groundbreaking mission. Initially planned for eight days, their mission to test Boeing’s Starliner crew capsule was extended to an impressive 286 days. This extended mission, which began in June 2024, ended with the astronauts returning aboard SpaceX on March 18, 2025. According to Ken Bowersox, NASA’s space operations chief, the mission holds the record for the largest extension in spaceflight history. Space missions often face delays, and this long journey underscores the unpredictable nature of space exploration.
This prolonged mission offers valuable insights into the effects of extended space travel. Astronauts experience both physical and psychological challenges due to weightlessness and isolation. These effects, which have been extensively studied, help scientists understand how the human body adapts to life in space. Despite the difficulties, astronauts maintain essential tasks such as space equipment maintenance and conducting scientific experiments. This mission contributes to a deeper understanding of how humans can live and work in space for extended periods. Furthermore, technological innovations, such as advancements in life support systems and spacecraft design, are crucial in supporting these missions, making long-term space exploration more feasible.
This prolonged mission offers valuable insights into the effects of extended space travel. Astronauts experience both physical and psychological challenges due to weightlessness and isolation. These effects, which have been extensively studied, help scientists understand how the human body adapts to life in space. Despite the difficulties, astronauts maintain essential tasks such as space equipment maintenance and conducting scientific experiments. This mission contributes to a deeper understanding of how humans can live and work in space for extended periods. Furthermore, technological innovations, such as advancements in life support systems and spacecraft design, are crucial in supporting these missions, making long-term space exploration more feasible.
Comprehension questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.
- What was the original length of the astronauts’ mission?
- Who were the astronauts involved in the mission?
- What happened to the mission duration?
- When did the astronauts return to Earth?
- What record does this mission hold?
Discussion questions
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever watched a space mission on TV? If so, what did you learn from watching the mission? If not, would you like to watch a space mission? Why or why not?
- Do you enjoy learning about space and astronauts? If so, what is the most interesting thing you have learned about space? If not, what would you like to learn more about regarding space?
- Do you agree that long-term space travel can be both physically and psychologically difficult for astronauts?
- Why do you think it is important to understand the effects of space travel on the human body?
- What other technological advancements might be necessary for future space exploration missions?