Biosphere 2 Research and Challenges

Biosphere 2, built in the Sonoran Desert, was designed as a closed system to explore human sustainability in space-like environments. Initially planned for 50 missions, it faced significant challenges, including air leaks and factionalism among crew members. Despite these issues, it now serves as a research facility for climate change studies and attracts tourists. The original mission was never completed, but it remains a valuable experiment.

What was the primary purpose of Biosphere 2 when it was built?

• To explore human survival in closed ecosystems

• To serve as a tourist attraction

• To study marine life

• To generate electricity

What major issue did the crew face during the missions in Biosphere 2?

• Lack of food

• Factionalism among crew members

• Excessive rainfall

• Inadequate sunlight

What environmental problems contributed to the challenges in Biosphere 2?

• Air leaks and pest infestations

• Volcanic eruptions

• Flooding and drought

• Earthquakes and landslides

What happened to Biosphere 2 after the live-in phase ended?

• It became a research facility for climate change

• It was abandoned

• It was demolished

• It was converted into a shopping mall

Which institution currently uses Biosphere 2 for research?

• NASA

• University of Arizona

• Smithsonian Institution

• Harvard University

What new facility is being built at Biosphere 2 to study rainwater?

• A solar power plant

• A land Evolution Observatory

• A botanical garden

• A marine research center

What is one of the unique features of Biosphere 2 as a research facility?

• It can simulate different planetary environments

• It is the tallest building in the world

• It has the largest aquarium in the world

• It allows control over temperature and atmospheric gases

How has Biosphere 2 evolved in terms of public engagement?

• It has become a major tourist attraction

• It is now a private residence

• It is used for military training

• It is closed to the public

What is the current status of Biosphere 2's original mission?

• It remains unfinished

• It was abandoned due to lack of interest

• It was completed by another team

• It was completed successfully

What is the general sentiment about the value of Biosphere 2's experiment?

• It was irrelevant to scientific research

• It was an experiment worth taking

• It was too costly to be valuable

• It was a complete failure