Space Exploration and Societal Benefits

By: Brittany D. Alexander

Satellites are placed in orbit around Earth

Data is gathered from outside Earth’s

atmosphere with special instruments

and telescopes. The information is sent back to

Earth and interpreted.

Spectroscopes

collect light from distant stars

separates light into bands of different colors (color spectrum)

Colors show the composition of a star (each element has its own color!)

Steps of Exploration

First step- Flybys

Quick data/image collection when flying by a planet.

Steps of Exploration

Second Step- Orbiters

Put in orbit around a planet to gather data over a long period of time.

Steps of Exploration

Third Step- Lander and Probes

Usually goes to places that are dangerous for astronauts.

Carry special equipment for each type of mission.

Space Probes

Travel outside Earth’s orbit

Travel to places that are too dangerous for astronomers

Contains instruments to collect data

Space Exploration Benefits Society

Satellites

• help us predict the weather and warn people of dangerous storms

Technology

• Firefighters use the same fire-resistant material used for astronauts.

• Air/food/water purification