Unit 5 Part I - Key Concepts and Fundamental Questions
Key Concepts
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There are many requirements for life, as currently
understood, to exist and persist. Characteristics of objects in our solar system such as
proximity to the Sun, presence of water, atmospheric composition and a magnetic
field contribute to the ability to support life. Data about the characteristics of objects
in our solar system have been gathered using telescopes, satellites and unmanned
probes.
Proximity to the Sun contributes to temperature ranges experienced by a celestial
body. Distances that are too close or too far from that Sun create extreme
temperature conditions that are considered inhospitable to life.
The presence and composition of an atmosphere contributes to the ability of life to
exist. Atmospheric gases help regulate extreme temperature variations and ozone in
the atmosphere shields living things from harmful ultraviolet radiation. The
magnetosphere, formed by Earth’s magnetic field, protects life from the charged
particles of the solar wind.
Earth is known as the water planet with about 70% of its surface covered by water.
All life on Earth depends upon the presence of water. There is geological evidence
that liquid water was once present on the surface of Mars. Scientists speculate that
water exists, in various states of matter, on other celestial bodies in our solar system.
Fundamental Questions –
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What characteristics of our solar system support the existence of life?
How have scientists gathered data about the characteristics of distant objects in our
solar system?
How does the distance from the Sun affect the conditions necessary for life?
How does the presence and composition of an atmosphere affect the conditions
necessary for life?
How does the presence of a magnetic field affect the conditions necessary for life?
How does the presence of water affect the conditions necessary for life?
Unit 5 Part I - Key Concepts and Fundamental Questions
Key Concepts
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Extreme temperature variations, the vacuum of space, and a microgravity
environment are all factors that require design accommodations that enable manned
space exploration. Specialized life support systems are required by astronauts in
space vehicles, within the space station, and in space suits.
Space suit technology provides a life support system for the astronaut by regulating
temperature and pressure, as well as providing oxygen and protection from the space
environment.
Astronauts must exercise regularly while in space because a microgravity
environment can cause muscles and bones to become weak and less dense. Handles,
tethers and Velcro® straps are accommodations that help astronauts to move
around, sleep safely and complete other tasks that normally utilize the force of
gravity.
Astronauts must use complex radios and computers in order to communicate with
one another and with a mission team on Earth. These instruments also help them
conduct research and repair damaged equipment and satellites.
Fundamental Questions –
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What are some of the extreme conditions in space that challenge manned space
exploration?
What are some of the key life support systems built into a space suit?
How does the microgravity environment in space affect astronauts' bodies?
What are some of the accommodations that have been developed to help astronauts
move and complete tasks when working in microgravity environments in space?
What are some examples of technology used by astronauts to communicate and
perform a variety of tasks while in space?