Although the thermosphere is considered part of Earth's atmosphere, the air density is so low we normally think of it as outer space. The space shuttle and the International Space Station both orbit Earth within the thermosphere. Much of the Sun's UV and x-ray radiation are also absorbed by this layer. The thermosphere gets hotter and expands or "puffs up". Because of this, the height of the top of the thermosphere varies. The thermosphere has winds and tides that help move energy around. Why is this important for NASA engineers to know when designing future satellites? A) The thermosphere creates a drag force on the satellites as they orbit. B) The satellite will continue to travel through the thermosphere to the exosphere. When launched the high energy radiation from the sun will cause the satellite to burst. D) The winds and tides of the thermosphere will cause the satellite to move up and down instead of orbit. Submit