Space probe

High school (ages 12+)
Space & Astronomy

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/space-probe

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is Space probe known for?Revolutionized understanding of planetary geology, atmospheres, and potential habitability
2. What is the scientific category?Uncrewed spacecraft for scientific investigation of celestial bodies
3. What is the key propulsion principle?Utilizes chemical rockets, ion thrusters, and gravity assists for navigation
4. How do space probes travel to other planets?They launch on powerful rockets to leave Earth, then use engines like chemical rockets or ion thrusters to change direction and speed. They can also use a planet's gravity to boost their speed without using extra fuel.
5. What powers space probes?Many use solar panels to get energy from the Sun, but those that go far away use Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generators, which turn heat from radioactive atoms into electricity.

Autonomous spacecraft: A spacecraft capable of operating and making decisions without direct human control.
Gravity assist: A maneuver using a celestial body's gravity to alter a spacecraft's velocity and trajectory.
Radioisotope Thermoelectric Generator (RTG): A power system that converts heat from radioactive decay into electricity for spacecraft.
Biosignatures: Substances or phenomena that provide evidence of past or present life.