Reflection Questions - Video 1

1. Compare the Viking 1 and 2 probes to the Pathfinder probe that landed on Mars in 1997.
How was their technology different?

Viking 1 and 2 probes were launched in the 1970s and were primarily focused on searching
for signs of life on Mars. They had basic imaging capabilities and limited mobility. In contrast,
the Pathfinder probe, launched in 1997, featured more advanced technology. It included the
Sojourner rover, which had the ability to move around and conduct experiments directly on
the Martian surface. The technology had improved significantly, allowing for better
exploration and data collection.

2. According to the video, how did improving our technology lead to new discoveries about
Mars?

Improving technology, such as better cameras and wireless communication equipment,

allowed for more detailed images of Mars's surface to be captured and transmitted back to
Earth. These images revealed features like canyons, river valleys, and evidence of past
water flows, which led to the discovery that Mars might have had a more hospitable
environment in its distant past. This information significantly advanced our understanding of
the planet's geological history and potential for past life.

3. Using internet resources, describe how advances in imaging and wireless communication
for space exploration have led to changes in imaging devices and communication on Earth.

Advances in space imaging technology, including higher-resolution cameras and

sophisticated image processing techniques, have contributed to the development of various
Earth applications, such as satellite-based Earth observation, GPS navigation, and even
medical imaging technologies like MRI and CT scans. Wireless communication technologies
developed for space missions have also influenced the development of wireless networks on
Earth, enabling global connectivity through mobile devices and the internet.

4. Mars Odyssey and Mars Express required spectrometric equipment that could analyze
Mars's atmosphere and surface composition and temperatures. Using internet resources,
describe some home or business technologies that use spectrometric equipment to analyze
atmosphere or temperature.

Spectrometric equipment is commonly used in various applications on Earth. For instance, in

home and business settings, spectrometers are utilized in environmental monitoring, food
quality analysis, and material characterization. In the environmental sector, spectrometers
can be used to analyze air quality and monitor pollutants. In the food industry, they are
employed to assess food composition and quality. Additionally, spectrometry is used in
pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and many other fields to analyze substances and their
properties.

5. Using internet resources, research one space probe described in the video. Describe its
goals and justify its purpose by explaining how it helped advance our understanding of the
universe.
One example of a space probe is the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO). Launched in
2005, its primary goal is to study Mars from orbit. MRO is equipped with a suite of scientific
instruments, including a high-resolution camera, spectrometers, and radar. Its objectives
include studying Mars' climate, geology, and atmosphere. It has played a crucial role in
identifying potential landing sites for future Mars missions, including those aimed at
searching for signs of past or present life. MRO has significantly advanced our
understanding of Mars and paved the way for future exploration.

Now, let's move on to Video 2:

Reflection Questions - Video 2:

1. What are radio waves?

Radio waves are a type of electromagnetic radiation with relatively long wavelengths and low
frequencies. They are a part of the electromagnetic spectrum and are used for various forms
of communication, including radio broadcasting, wireless data transmission, and, in the
context of the video, for astronomical observations.

2. Describe how radio telescopes function.

Radio telescopes detect and collect radio waves from space. They consist of a large
parabolic dish or an array of antennas that focus incoming radio waves onto a receiver. The
receiver then converts these radio waves into electrical signals, which can be processed and
analyzed to create images and study celestial objects.

3. What are the advantages of using a radio telescope instead of a reflecting or refracting
telescope?

Radio telescopes have several advantages over optical telescopes (reflecting or refracting
telescopes) for certain types of astronomical observations. These advantages include:
- Radio waves can pass through cosmic dust and gas, allowing astronomers to observe
objects obscured in visible light.
- Radio telescopes can operate day and night and are not affected by weather conditions.
- They can detect emissions from cool objects in the universe, such as interstellar gas and
radio galaxies.
- Radio telescopes can capture emissions from distant objects, providing insights into the
early universe.

4. Using internet resources, describe the ways radio waves are used on Earth.

Radio waves are used for a wide range of applications on Earth, including:
- Radio and television broadcasting.
- Wireless communication, including mobile phones and Wi-Fi.
- Radar systems for navigation and weather monitoring.
- Microwave ovens for cooking.
- Radiofrequency identification (RFID) for tracking goods.
- Satellite communication for global connectivity.
- Remote sensing for environmental monitoring and defense.
5. How do radio telescopes help advance our knowledge of our universe?

Radio telescopes are instrumental in advancing our understanding of the universe by:
- Studying celestial objects and phenomena that emit radio waves, such as pulsars,
quasars, and cosmic microwave background radiation.
- Mapping the distribution of galaxies and dark matter in the universe.
- Investigating the properties of interstellar gas and dust, which play a crucial role in the
formation of stars and galaxies.
- Detecting and characterizing exoplanets through radio emissions from their magnetic
fields.