NASA launches TROPICS mission to upgrade hurricane forecasting

admin 2023年6月17日

Intermediate

science & technology, science & technology - intermediate

Pre-reading questions:

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

Do you watch weather forecasts? Why or why not?
Do you think the weather and climate forecasts that we now have are accurate? What could be improved?

Vocabulary:

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

initiative /ih-NISH-uh-tiv/

[noun] – a new plan or process to achieve something or solve a problem
Sarah showed great initiative by organizing a community clean-up event, gathering volunteers and cleaning supplies to make a positive impact on the neighborhood.

subsequent /SUHB-si-kwuhnt/

[adjective] – happening after something else
After the heavy rain, subsequent flooding occurred, causing road closures and property damage in the affected areas.

comparable /KOM-per-uh-buhl/

[adjective] – similar in size, amount, or quality to something else
The performance of the rookie player was comparable to that of seasoned professionals, earning him praise from both fans and coaches.

necessity /nuh-SES-i-tee/

[noun] – the need for something
Water is a basic necessity for survival, as the human body requires it to function properly.

administration /ad-min-uh-STREY-shuhn/

[noun] – the management or control of an organization
The healthcare administration ensures smooth operations in hospitals by managing resources, coordinating patient care, and handling administrative tasks.

Article reading:

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

In preparation for the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season, NASA has embarked on a mission, TROPICS (Time-Resolved Observations of Precipitation Structure and Storm Intensity with a Constellation of Smallsats), dedicated to advancing hurricane forecasting. This initiative involves a constellation of small satellites called CubeSats. The inaugural two CubeSats were triumphantly launched aboard a Rocket Lab Electron rocket from New Zealand, with the subsequent two, affectionately nicknamed “Coming to a Storm Near You,” scheduled for launch at the same location in approximately two weeks. Operating from low-Earth orbit, these diminutive satellites, weighing a mere 12 pounds and comparable in size to a loaf of bread, will closely monitor tropical cyclones.

The primary objective of the TROPICS mission is to empower scientists and researchers to accurately predict storm intensity, enabling ample time for evacuations and preparatory measures. The CubeSats will collect invaluable data about precipitation, temperature, and humidity measurements, enhancing our comprehension of storm movements. The mission will unlock insights into the internal structure and mechanics of hurricanes and tropical storms. Given the consequences of these weather events on both lives and livelihoods, the dire necessity for enhanced climate and weather data from space is indisputable. Consequently, the compiled data will be disseminated among esteemed organizations such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Joint Typhoon Warning Center, and the National Hurricane Center.

Comprehension questions

I will read each question. Then, please answer them based on the article.

What is the name of the NASA mission dedicated to advancing hurricane forecasting?
From where were the first two CubeSats launched in their inaugural mission?
How many CubeSats are scheduled for launch in approximately two weeks?
What is the primary objective of the TROPICS mission?
Why is enhanced climate and weather data from space necessary?

Discussion questions