Space Exploration: Risk Versus Reward

Dr. Forrester discusses the spirit of exploration, from historical figures like George Mallory and Yuri Gagarin to modern space exploration. The video covers the risks and rewards of space missions, highlighting NASA's achievements and challenges, including the Apollo and Space Shuttle programs. The Challenger disaster is detailed, raising questions about the necessity of human space travel. The video concludes with a look at the future of space exploration, emphasizing the potential of unmanned missions and the ongoing debate over costs and human involvement.

What was George Mallory's famous reason for wanting to climb Mount Everest?

• Because it's there

• For scientific research

• To discover new lands

• To prove his strength

Which mission was the first to successfully land on the moon?

• Apollo 1

• Challenger

• Apollo 11

• Discovery

What caused the Challenger disaster?

• Pilot error

• A fuel shortage

• A bad seal on the solid rocket booster

• A collision with space debris

Why do some people believe manned space missions are important?

• To test human adaptability in space

• To reduce costs

• To avoid risks

• To increase satellite launches

What is a major financial challenge of space exploration?

• Limited technology

• Shortage of astronauts

• High cost of fuel and resources

• Lack of interest

What is one advantage of using unmanned spacecraft for exploration?

• They are safer and cheaper

• They can travel faster

• They can communicate better

• They require less maintenance

How long would it take to travel to Mars with current technology?

• 300 days

• 400 days

• 100 days

• 200 days