Direct Observation via Manned Missions

Direct Observation via Manned Missions

Advantages

  • Direct human observation allows for real-time changes in investigation. Astronauts can adjust their strategies based on the conditions they experience.
  • Manned missions have a significant educational and inspirational value. First-hand accounts of space travel have enormous potential to ignite public interest and encourage further study in science.
  • Astronauts can carry out complex tasks that may not be achievable by robotic missions such as repairs, delicate experiments and handling unforeseen issues.

Disadvantages

  • Manned missions to space are highly risky. There is potential for loss of life, as seen in the Space Shuttle Challenger and Columbia disasters.
  • They are very expensive. Costs include the spaceship, safety measures, astronaut training, life support systems, and bringing people back home safely.
  • The human body is not suited for the extremes of space. Health risks include exposure to radiation, reduced immunity, muscle and bone density loss.

Famous Manned Missions

  • Apollo missions by NASA: This includes Apollo 11, the mission that first brought human beings to the moon in 1969.
  • Space Shuttle missions by NASA: The Shuttles were used between 1981 and 2011 for various purposes including satellite deployment and construction and maintenance of the International Space Station (ISS).
  • International Space Station (ISS): A space station involving multiple countries where astronauts conduct various scientific research and experiments.

Astronaut Training

  • Aspiring astronauts must undergo rigorous physical training to prepare the body for the hardships of space travel.
  • They go through simulation training to prepare for all possible scenarios they might encounter in space.
  • Training also includes learning about the various systems and operations of the spacecraft they will be using.
  • Education is a must, generally, a degree in engineering, biological science, physical science, or mathematics is required by NASA.
  • Fluency in multiple languages is often required, as international cooperation is common in space missions. For instance, NASA astronauts often learn Russian.