Pre-reading questions:
- What comes to mind when you hear the term space exploration?
- Do you think space exploration has advantages? Why or why not?
Vocabulary:
- rocket /ROK-it/
- engineering /EN-juh-neer-ing/
- flawlessly /FLAW-less-lee/
- deploy /di-PLOY/
- observation /ob-zer-VEY-shun/
[noun] – a large cylinder-shaped object that moves very fast by forcing out burning gases, used for space travel or as a weapon
The rocket soared into the sky, leaving a trail of smoke behind.
[noun] – the branch of science and technology concerned with the design, building, and use of engines, machines, and structures
Engineering involves solving complex problems using mathematics and science principles.
[adverb] – in a way that is without any mistakes or faults; perfectly
She performed flawlessly in her piano recital, impressing the audience with her skill.
[verb] – to bring into effective action; utilize
The soldiers were ordered to deploy their equipment quickly during the training exercise.
[noun] – the act of observing something or someone
Scientific observation requires careful attention to detail and accurate recording of data.
Article reading:
ALOS-4 is designed for extensive Earth observation, focusing on critical areas such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and changes in land and coastal environments. Equipped with advanced sensors developed in collaboration with Japan’s Defense Ministry, it also monitors military activities like missile launches, bolstering Japan’s national security. JAXA President Hiroshi Yamakawa hailed the launch as pivotal for Japan’s space ambitions, emphasizing how ALOS-4 enhances scientific understanding, disaster response capabilities, and Japan’s global space reputation. The H3 rocket system, a joint effort of JAXA and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, marks a significant leap in launch technology. It aims to replace Japan’s older H-2A rockets, ensuring continued reliability and competitiveness in the global space launch market. This upgrade underscores Japan’s commitment to maintaining robust space capabilities for civilian and defense purposes, safeguarding national interests, and fostering international collaboration in space exploration.
Comprehension questions
- How did Japan mark a significant achievement in space exploration recently?
- What are some of the key purposes of the ALOS-4 satellite?
- Who collaborated on the development of the advanced sensors for ALOS-4?
- How does the H3 rocket system differ from Japan’s older H-2A rockets?
- According to JAXA President Hiroshi Yamakawa, what are some of the benefits of the ALOS-4 satellite?
Discussion questions
- Have you ever witnessed a satellite launch or a significant technological achievement in person? If so, describe the experience. If not, would you like to witness such an event in the future? Why or why not?
- Can you give examples of how space technology has influenced everyday technology?
- Do you agree that investing in space exploration enhances a country’s technological capabilities and international prestige?
- How might the successful launch of ALOS-4 influence other countries’ investments in space exploration and satellite technology?
- What challenges do you foresee in balancing the advancement of space technology for scientific research with its potential military applications, as seen with ALOS-4?