Set-1 Read the following passage and answer the questions below.
(15)
The development of the space shuttle has dramatically reduced the cost of sending
loads into space. The shuttle takesoff from Earth like a rocket, and lands again like an
aircraft. It can transport not only its own crew, but also passengers, and has a huge
cargo-hold which is capable of carrying large satellites or a laboratory
Before the space shuttle was created, it was necessary to plan trips into space several
years in advance. However, for the rest of the century, it should be possible to make
space fights every week or so. Any scientist or engineer needing travel into orbit can
take the next flight, stay as long as necessary, and then return as his or her
convenience.
It is difficult to image the immerse opportunities created by the shuttle. One of the
great advantages of having a reusable space vehicle is that it can take one load after
another into orbit. Very large space stations could not be launched in their complete
form directly from earth, but they could be built in space. The space shuttle is likely to
be used as a general 'workhouse' for the rest of the century, and the building of such
stations in orbit should become common place.
One these huge orbiting space stations are completed, they are likely to become the
platforms from which hundreds of robot space ships could be launched cheaply and
easily to explore the solar system and to start miming operation on the moon. The
technology needed for this is already developed by space technologies. It is likely that
governments will be increasingly willing to start extensive programmes of the space
engineering, exploration and research.
Questions:
a. What is the space shuttle and how does it work?
b. How has the shuttle made space travel easy?
What are the main advantages of reusable space shuttle?
d. How can the space platforms be used?
e. For what purpose are the space stations likely to be used by the governments?