The hard truth: this revolution is not designed for you.
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Contours of a Changing Cosmos
Space was once the playground of only national governments and scientists, but that is changing fast. A new group of billionaire pioneers are champing at the bit to challenge the old ways, creating what is now called the "Commercial Space Race." Driven by the potential profits of space tourism and mining, these private companies have managed to scale up their operations much faster than anyone expected. However, as private rockets launch more frequently, people are starting to worry about fairness and the protection of our planet.
We must ask if this competition is a natural step for human growth or just a way for the rich to show off. These space tycoons claim they want to make humans "multi-planetary" to save our species—an ostensibly noble goal. Yet, the immediate reality is mostly about money. A short trip to space costs hundreds of thousands of dollars, which put paid to any idea that regular people can join in. Furthermore, the massive expenditure on these projects takes resources away from solving urgent problems on Earth.
Critics argue that the high number of private launches has worsened the issue of space debris. The orbit is becoming a dangerous field of broken satellites and rocket parts. Travelling at incredible speeds, this "orbital junk" is a perilous threat to our technology and future missions. In the light of this danger, international authorities are finding it hard to keep up with the fast-moving industry. They are trying to draw a line in the sand to stop the space environment from being permanently ruined.
While the ingenuity of private space flight is impressive, its true motives are still being debated. The big question is whether private space travel will help everyone or just create a bigger gap between the rich and the poor. Some observers believe we are wrongly assuming that high-tech success equals moral progress. Without strict ethical rules, we risk being predatory in space, just as we have been on Earth.
Others are more hopeful. They believe that if governments and private companies work together, they could create profound benefits for climate tracking and communication. In the end, the success of this new era depends on our ability to balance bold discovery with a sense of duty and fairness.
The word “ingenuity” in paragraph 4 is CLOSEST in meaning to _____.
Complete the summary using the list of words below. Write the correct letter, A-H, in each blank.
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A. exploitative B. magnates C. prosperity D. outlay |
E. acceleration F. hazardous G. unstable H. inventiveness |
The transition of space exploration from government control to private has accelerated more rapidly than many anticipated. While proponents argue that this shift aims to ensure the long-term survival of the human species, critics highlight that the massive financial required prevents ordinary citizens from participating and diverts funds from pressing global issues. Furthermore, the increase in launches has created a environment in orbit due to the accumulation of "junk" that threatens future travel and satellite technology. Despite the technical displayed by these companies, there are significant ethical concerns regarding the potential for behavior in the cosmos if profit remains the primary driver. Ultimately, achieving a positive outcome will require a careful balance between technological ambition and a deep-seated sense of global responsibility and fairness.
🚀 VOCABULARY BOOSTER
Build your vocabulary by learning these intensive expressions used in the text Contours of a Changing Cosmos.
Choose the word(s) OPPOSITE in meaning to the underlined word(s).
The athletes were champing at the bit as they waited for the start of the final race.
In the early stages, the company produced only a few prototypes, but rising demand forced them to _____.
In the _____ of new findings, the theory must be reconsidered and possibly revised.
Complete the second sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the first one, using the word in brackets. You must use between TWO and SIX words, including the word given. Do NOT change the word given.
The unexpected rain completely ruined our plans for a weekend picnic. (PAID)
=> Our plans for a weekend picnic by the unexpected rain.
Complete the second sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the first one, using the word in brackets. You must use between TWO and SIX words, including the word given. Do NOT change the word given.
Any future failure to comply with the new policy will no longer be overlooked by the company. (SAND)
=> The company has and will not accept any further breaches of the new policy.