Difficulty: Challenger (Level 2)
Being an astronaut is a dream for many kids, but it is not the only job that gives you a chance to explore space and learn about our galaxy. From building rockets to taking care of astronaut health, a career in space exploration can involve many different skills and interests.
1. Aerospace engineers
Aerospace engineers design the vehicles that take astronauts into space. They launch rockets, land rovers and build satellites that help us use the internet. Knowledge of maths and sciences is needed for crafting vehicles that can survive the harsh conditions of space.
2. Astronomers
Astronomers use maths, physics and chemistry to study the bodies beyond Earth’s atmosphere. They are often called astrophysicists. For example, they research black holes, which are areas where the gravity is so strong that even light cannot escape it.
3. Astrobiologists
Astrobiologists study if it is possible for life to exist outside Earth. Life survives on this planet because it is warm and has air and water. But many planets do not have these, so nothing can live there. Mars is interesting to astrobiologists because they think the planet might have had life in the past.
4. Space medics
Space medics take care of astronauts’ health in space. Being outside Earth’s gravity can be difficult for astronauts’ bodies, so space doctors use their knowledge of medicine, the human body and other sciences to make sure people are safe while exploring space.
5. Space lawyers
Space lawyers help countries and companies explore space without breaking rules that everyone has agreed on. The UN has helped create five international treaties on outer space. These include bans on testing nuclear weapons in space and not allowing any country to own the moon.
Use the puzzle below to test your knowledge of the vocabulary words in the story.
Suggested answers
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Before you read: Answers may vary (Astronauts go into space, live in a space station, do scientific research, travel in a rocket ship, and wear a space suit.)
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Consider: The lack of gravity for a prolonged period of time can cause problems in a person’s body when they are in space.
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Stop and think: The treaties state that no one can own the moon and that nuclear weapons are not allowed to be tested in space.
