The document summarizes China's space program, including its human spaceflight achievements and future plans. It discusses China successfully completing its second human spaceflight mission in October 2005, carrying two taikonauts for five days. It also mentions China's goal of building a large space station through additional missions involving spacewalks and docking. While China's public plans focus on robotic lunar missions, some reports discuss a possible human lunar landing by 2020.
NASA is the U.S. government agency responsible for civilian space programs and aerospace research. It was established in 1958 to succeed the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) and encourage peaceful applications of space science. Key events included the Apollo moon landing missions, development of the space shuttle, and current work on the International Space Station and new Orion and SLS vehicles. Major early programs included Mercury (first American in space), Gemini (rendezvous and EVA techniques), and Apollo (landing astronauts on the Moon).
China is developing a new family of rockets called Long March 5 to advance its space station plans and lunar exploration ambitions. The Long March 5 will be more powerful than China's current launchers and enable the country to launch a larger space station as well as conduct crewed missions to the moon. A key engine for the Long March 5 underwent a successful 200-second test firing in 2012. The Long March 5 is expected to make its first launch in 2014 and will significantly increase China's launch payload capacity.
Apollo 13 was a 1970 Apollo space mission to the moon that suffered a critical failure en route. The three astronauts aboard - James Lovell, Jack Swigert, and Fred Haise - worked with mission control to return safely after an oxygen tank exploded, endangering the spacecraft and crew's survival. The explosion forced the crew to abort their lunar landing and return to Earth earlier than planned, making emergency repairs and using the lunar module as a "lifeboat" to keep the command module's systems functioning well enough for reentry.
This document provides background information on NASA and the early US space program from 1957-1961. It summarizes that the Soviet Union's launch of Sputnik sparked the space race and concerns over national security. NASA was established in 1958 with the goal of achieving leadership in space over the USSR. Key early programs included Project Mercury to put the first American in orbit. Technological development focused on rockets like Redstone and Saturn I and spacecraft like Mercury. Political and public support for NASA grew after Yuri Gagarin's 1961 flight but was still constrained by budget debates over costs.
This document summarizes the space race between the United States and Soviet Union from the 1950s through the 1970s. It discusses key events like the launch of Sputnik, the formation of NASA, first humans in space by each country, and manned missions to the moon. It also covers unmanned space probes and future plans for space exploration.
The document outlines the key events in the Space Race between the Soviet Union and United States from the 1950s to 1969. It describes early pioneers in rocketry like Konstantin Tsiolkovsky and Robert Goddard. The Soviet Union took an early lead by launching Sputnik 1 in 1957 and sending the first human, Yuri Gagarin, into space in 1961. In response, US President Kennedy committed to landing a man on the moon. Through programs like Mercury and Apollo, the US achieved several firsts and caught up to the Soviets, ultimately achieving Kennedy's goal when Apollo 11 landed on the moon in 1969, bringing the Space Race to an end.
The Space Race between the US and Soviet Union began in the late 1950s and extended through the 1960s. Both countries competed to achieve various firsts in space exploration, such as launching the first satellite (Sputnik 1 by the Soviet Union) and the first human (Yuri Gagarin, also by the Soviet Union). This competition escalated when President John F. Kennedy announced the goal of landing a man on the moon by the end of the 1960s. On July 20, 1969, the United States achieved that goal when Apollo 11 landed astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on the moon, fulfilling Kennedy's challenge. While the pressure of the Space Race led to significant technological advances, it also resulted in loss of
NASA is the U.S. government agency responsible for civilian space programs and aerospace research. It was established in 1958 to succeed the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) and encourage peaceful applications of space science. Key events included the Apollo moon landing missions, development of the space shuttle, and current work on the International Space Station and new Orion and SLS vehicles. Major early programs included Mercury (first American in space), Gemini (rendezvous and EVA techniques), and Apollo (landing astronauts on the Moon).
China is developing a new family of rockets called Long March 5 to advance its space station plans and lunar exploration ambitions. The Long March 5 will be more powerful than China's current launchers and enable the country to launch a larger space station as well as conduct crewed missions to the moon. A key engine for the Long March 5 underwent a successful 200-second test firing in 2012. The Long March 5 is expected to make its first launch in 2014 and will significantly increase China's launch payload capacity.
Apollo 13 was a 1970 Apollo space mission to the moon that suffered a critical failure en route. The three astronauts aboard - James Lovell, Jack Swigert, and Fred Haise - worked with mission control to return safely after an oxygen tank exploded, endangering the spacecraft and crew's survival. The explosion forced the crew to abort their lunar landing and return to Earth earlier than planned, making emergency repairs and using the lunar module as a "lifeboat" to keep the command module's systems functioning well enough for reentry.
This document provides background information on NASA and the early US space program from 1957-1961. It summarizes that the Soviet Union's launch of Sputnik sparked the space race and concerns over national security. NASA was established in 1958 with the goal of achieving leadership in space over the USSR. Key early programs included Project Mercury to put the first American in orbit. Technological development focused on rockets like Redstone and Saturn I and spacecraft like Mercury. Political and public support for NASA grew after Yuri Gagarin's 1961 flight but was still constrained by budget debates over costs.
This document summarizes the space race between the United States and Soviet Union from the 1950s through the 1970s. It discusses key events like the launch of Sputnik, the formation of NASA, first humans in space by each country, and manned missions to the moon. It also covers unmanned space probes and future plans for space exploration.
The document outlines the key events in the Space Race between the Soviet Union and United States from the 1950s to 1969. It describes early pioneers in rocketry like Konstantin Tsiolkovsky and Robert Goddard. The Soviet Union took an early lead by launching Sputnik 1 in 1957 and sending the first human, Yuri Gagarin, into space in 1961. In response, US President Kennedy committed to landing a man on the moon. Through programs like Mercury and Apollo, the US achieved several firsts and caught up to the Soviets, ultimately achieving Kennedy's goal when Apollo 11 landed on the moon in 1969, bringing the Space Race to an end.
The Space Race between the US and Soviet Union began in the late 1950s and extended through the 1960s. Both countries competed to achieve various firsts in space exploration, such as launching the first satellite (Sputnik 1 by the Soviet Union) and the first human (Yuri Gagarin, also by the Soviet Union). This competition escalated when President John F. Kennedy announced the goal of landing a man on the moon by the end of the 1960s. On July 20, 1969, the United States achieved that goal when Apollo 11 landed astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on the moon, fulfilling Kennedy's challenge. While the pressure of the Space Race led to significant technological advances, it also resulted in loss of
The Cold War tensions between the US and Soviet Union led to the Space Race in the late 1950s. The Soviets launched Sputnik 1 and 2, the first artificial satellites, and sent the first human, Yuri Gagarin, into space in 1961. In response, NASA was established in 1958 and launched Explorer 1, America's first satellite. NASA's Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs achieved major milestones, culminating in the Apollo 11 mission that landed the first humans on the Moon in 1969. Both nations' space programs drove scientific progress and discovery.
The Space Race began in 1957 after the Soviet Union launched Sputnik, the world's first artificial satellite, demonstrating their technological superiority and ability to launch weapons globally. This kicked off a competition between the US and USSR to demonstrate dominance in space exploration through achievements like being the first to launch humans and land on the Moon. While initially a symbol of political and military rivalry during the Cold War, the two sides eventually cooperated on joint space missions, turning their competition into a partnership.
The Space Race was a competition between the Soviet Union and United States during the Cold War to achieve firsts in space exploration. It began with the launch of Sputnik 1 in 1957 and ended with the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project in 1975. Key events included the first artificial satellite, first human in space, first woman in space, first spacewalk, and the first lunar landing. Both countries made major advancements in science, technology, and education during this period to gain a competitive advantage in the race.
NASA and AARP celebrate 50 years of space exploration achievements including inspiring future generations, creating new jobs and technologies, and increasing discovery and knowledge of Earth and space. Key events include President Kennedy's 1962 speech advocating for space exploration, the 1969 Apollo 11 mission that landed the first humans on the Moon, and ongoing work at the International Space Station to enable future exploration.
NASA was established in 1958 in response to the Soviet launch of Sputnik. It led early spaceflight missions like Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo, which landed the first humans on the Moon in 1969. NASA developed the Space Shuttle program in the 1980s and helped build the International Space Station beginning in 1998. NASA conducts aeronautics research and collaborates with international partners on projects exploring Earth science, the solar system, and enabling commercial space activities.
The Vision for Space Exploration outlines NASA's plans to implement the President's directive for a renewed vision of space exploration. Key aspects of the plan include developing the capability to return humans to the Moon by 2020 to test new technologies and gain experience for future missions to Mars and other destinations. It also aims to advance robotic exploration of Mars, the outer planets' moons, and extrasolar planets to search for signs of life and better understand the history of the solar system. The plan is meant to inspire the nation and world through ambitious yet sustainable exploration and to develop cutting-edge technologies to further space science and its applications.
The document discusses the nuclear and space technology race between the United States and Soviet Union during the Cold War. Both nations developed nuclear weapons and feared a nuclear war, leading to an arms race as President Reagan challenged the USSR to increase military spending. In space, the Soviets initially led by launching the first satellite and manned mission while the US gained the advantage by landing astronauts on the moon. Eventually, the two countries began cooperating in space exploration.
Space Race Presentation With Works Cited[1]CdrHeather
The document discusses the early history of rocketry pioneers Konstantin Tsiolkovsky, Robert Goddard, and Hermann Oberth, who conducted experiments in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It then covers the Space Race between the US and USSR during the Cold War, which began with the Soviet Union's launch of Sputnik in 1957 and ended with the US landing on the moon in 1969. The Space Race accelerated technological advances and helped launch the modern space age, but also increased fears and paranoia that contributed to UFO conspiracy theories and sci-fi culture.
Charles Bolden was nominated by President Obama in 2009 to be the NASA administrator, with Lori Garver as deputy administrator. NASA is a United States government agency responsible for the civilian space program and aeronautics research, formed in 1958. Key missions and programs included Explorer (1958-2011), Ranger (1960s moon images), Apollo (1969 first moon landing), Space Shuttle (1981-2011), and current investigations of Mars, Saturn, Earth, and the Sun.
The document provides a history of key spacecraft discoveries and space missions, including Vostok-1 which carried the first man to space, Yuri Gagarin. It discusses the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs which worked to develop techniques for manned spaceflight. Additional space stations and missions discussed include Skylab, the first US space station; Soyuz missions to the Russian space station Mir; the Space Shuttle program; and the ongoing International Space Station.
This document summarizes the first reported UFO incident in China, which occurred on July 24, 1981. Over 10 million people across southwest and northwest China witnessed a huge spiral-shaped bright object in the night sky for 6-7 minutes. The sighting generated significant interest, with over 70 news reports published. While some viewed it as a meteor, calculations found it was traveling too slowly at an altitude of 500km. The source remains unidentified, though spy planes or an alien spacecraft cannot be ruled out, leaving the incident still awaiting full clarification.
The document discusses the Space Race between the US and USSR during the Cold War from 1957-1975. The two superpowers competed to achieve firsts in space exploration, such as launching satellites, sending humans into space, and landing on the Moon, which were seen as demonstrations of technological and ideological superiority. The Space Race began with the Soviet Union's launch of Sputnik 1 in 1957 and concluded with the US landing astronauts on the Moon in 1969, achieving President Kennedy's goal. The Space Race had long-term effects on education in the US by inspiring greater emphasis on STEM subjects in schools.
The document discusses key events and people involved in the Space Race between the United States and Soviet Union from the late 1950s through the 1960s and early 1970s. It includes the launch of early satellites like Sputnik 1 and Echo 1A by both countries, early manned spaceflights by astronauts like Alan Shepard, John Glenn, and Yuri Gagarin, and culminated with the Apollo 11 mission that landed Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on the Moon in 1969.
This document summarizes the discovery of a transiting circumbinary planet (PH1) in a quadruple star system by volunteers with the Planet Hunters citizen science project. PH1 orbits outside a 20-day eclipsing binary consisting of an F dwarf and an M dwarf star. It has a radius of 6.18 ± 0.17 R⊕ and an upper mass limit of 169 M⊕. Beyond PH1's orbit is a distant visual binary bound to the system, making this the first known case of a transiting planet in a quadruple star configuration. Planet Hunters volunteers identified transit features in the Kepler light curve of KIC 4862625 through visual inspection and discussion, leading to the confirmation and characterization
The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a satellite-based navigation system that provides location and time information to receivers anywhere on Earth. It was developed by the U.S. military in the 1970s and became fully operational in 1994. GPS uses a constellation of satellites that continuously transmit their positions and the current time, allowing receivers to determine their location by calculating the time delay of signals from at least four satellites.
Cancellation of the Constellation Program and Future of NASAJohn Knowles
The document discusses the cancellation of NASA's Constellation program by President Obama and the future of American human spaceflight. It outlines the history and goals of the Constellation program, the reasons for its cancellation due to budget cuts, and arguments from supporters of its continuation regarding national defense, jobs, and scientific discovery. Alternatives like privatizing spaceflight are mentioned but seen as insufficient to replace NASA's role. The summary concludes the cancellation leaves NASA without direction and could end America's leadership in space.
This document discusses the future opportunities for commercial spaceflight. It begins by reviewing the history of government-funded space programs since Yuri Gagarin's flight in 1961, noting the small number of flights per year on average. It then discusses key events that enabled private spaceflight, including Paul Allen's funding of SpaceShipOne, which won the X Prize in 2004. The document advocates for creating a regulatory environment similar to the early aviation industry to spur innovation, competition, and reduced costs in private spaceflight to inspire future generations. It provides perspectives on technology cycles in transportation and argues for applying aviation's "natural selection" approach to space research and development.
Beyond The Final Frontier Ii The Rising Dragonnbelarbi
Three countries have launched humans into space: Russia, the US, and China. China has made major strides in its space program, becoming only the third nation to conduct manned space missions. It has also increased its annual launches, with 11 in 2008, surpassing the US. China aims to send humans around the moon by 2015 and to the moon by 2024. It sees its growing space capabilities as a way to boost national prestige and control communications, while also posing a challenge to the historic dominance of Russia and the US in space.
China has made significant progress in its space program over the past 50 years, developing satellites, launch vehicles, launch sites, tracking and command capabilities, and manned spaceflight. Some key achievements include independently developing and launching over 80 satellite types, 117 successful launches of Long March rockets, establishing three launch sites and control centers, and completing multiple manned Shenzhou missions including China's first spacewalk in 2008. China also cooperates bilaterally and multilaterally with other countries and groups on peaceful uses of outer space.
Nasa, post apollo and the rise of the space shuttle - a glance at the definit...PublicLeaker
This document provides background on NASA's plans for post-Apollo space activities in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It discusses how NASA advocated for developing a reusable Space Shuttle and modular space station. NASA estimated costs of over $20 billion for developing these systems. However, political support was weakening as Apollo ended. President Nixon established a Space Task Group to review options, as NASA faced pressures to reduce budgets. Different groups debated priorities for human or robotic spaceflight in the coming decade.
The Cold War tensions between the US and Soviet Union led to the Space Race in the late 1950s. The Soviets launched Sputnik 1 and 2, the first artificial satellites, and sent the first human, Yuri Gagarin, into space in 1961. In response, NASA was established in 1958 and launched Explorer 1, America's first satellite. NASA's Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs achieved major milestones, culminating in the Apollo 11 mission that landed the first humans on the Moon in 1969. Both nations' space programs drove scientific progress and discovery.
The Space Race began in 1957 after the Soviet Union launched Sputnik, the world's first artificial satellite, demonstrating their technological superiority and ability to launch weapons globally. This kicked off a competition between the US and USSR to demonstrate dominance in space exploration through achievements like being the first to launch humans and land on the Moon. While initially a symbol of political and military rivalry during the Cold War, the two sides eventually cooperated on joint space missions, turning their competition into a partnership.
The Space Race was a competition between the Soviet Union and United States during the Cold War to achieve firsts in space exploration. It began with the launch of Sputnik 1 in 1957 and ended with the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project in 1975. Key events included the first artificial satellite, first human in space, first woman in space, first spacewalk, and the first lunar landing. Both countries made major advancements in science, technology, and education during this period to gain a competitive advantage in the race.
NASA and AARP celebrate 50 years of space exploration achievements including inspiring future generations, creating new jobs and technologies, and increasing discovery and knowledge of Earth and space. Key events include President Kennedy's 1962 speech advocating for space exploration, the 1969 Apollo 11 mission that landed the first humans on the Moon, and ongoing work at the International Space Station to enable future exploration.
NASA was established in 1958 in response to the Soviet launch of Sputnik. It led early spaceflight missions like Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo, which landed the first humans on the Moon in 1969. NASA developed the Space Shuttle program in the 1980s and helped build the International Space Station beginning in 1998. NASA conducts aeronautics research and collaborates with international partners on projects exploring Earth science, the solar system, and enabling commercial space activities.
The Vision for Space Exploration outlines NASA's plans to implement the President's directive for a renewed vision of space exploration. Key aspects of the plan include developing the capability to return humans to the Moon by 2020 to test new technologies and gain experience for future missions to Mars and other destinations. It also aims to advance robotic exploration of Mars, the outer planets' moons, and extrasolar planets to search for signs of life and better understand the history of the solar system. The plan is meant to inspire the nation and world through ambitious yet sustainable exploration and to develop cutting-edge technologies to further space science and its applications.
The document discusses the nuclear and space technology race between the United States and Soviet Union during the Cold War. Both nations developed nuclear weapons and feared a nuclear war, leading to an arms race as President Reagan challenged the USSR to increase military spending. In space, the Soviets initially led by launching the first satellite and manned mission while the US gained the advantage by landing astronauts on the moon. Eventually, the two countries began cooperating in space exploration.
Space Race Presentation With Works Cited[1]CdrHeather
The document discusses the early history of rocketry pioneers Konstantin Tsiolkovsky, Robert Goddard, and Hermann Oberth, who conducted experiments in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It then covers the Space Race between the US and USSR during the Cold War, which began with the Soviet Union's launch of Sputnik in 1957 and ended with the US landing on the moon in 1969. The Space Race accelerated technological advances and helped launch the modern space age, but also increased fears and paranoia that contributed to UFO conspiracy theories and sci-fi culture.
Charles Bolden was nominated by President Obama in 2009 to be the NASA administrator, with Lori Garver as deputy administrator. NASA is a United States government agency responsible for the civilian space program and aeronautics research, formed in 1958. Key missions and programs included Explorer (1958-2011), Ranger (1960s moon images), Apollo (1969 first moon landing), Space Shuttle (1981-2011), and current investigations of Mars, Saturn, Earth, and the Sun.
The document provides a history of key spacecraft discoveries and space missions, including Vostok-1 which carried the first man to space, Yuri Gagarin. It discusses the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs which worked to develop techniques for manned spaceflight. Additional space stations and missions discussed include Skylab, the first US space station; Soyuz missions to the Russian space station Mir; the Space Shuttle program; and the ongoing International Space Station.
This document summarizes the first reported UFO incident in China, which occurred on July 24, 1981. Over 10 million people across southwest and northwest China witnessed a huge spiral-shaped bright object in the night sky for 6-7 minutes. The sighting generated significant interest, with over 70 news reports published. While some viewed it as a meteor, calculations found it was traveling too slowly at an altitude of 500km. The source remains unidentified, though spy planes or an alien spacecraft cannot be ruled out, leaving the incident still awaiting full clarification.
The document discusses the Space Race between the US and USSR during the Cold War from 1957-1975. The two superpowers competed to achieve firsts in space exploration, such as launching satellites, sending humans into space, and landing on the Moon, which were seen as demonstrations of technological and ideological superiority. The Space Race began with the Soviet Union's launch of Sputnik 1 in 1957 and concluded with the US landing astronauts on the Moon in 1969, achieving President Kennedy's goal. The Space Race had long-term effects on education in the US by inspiring greater emphasis on STEM subjects in schools.
The document discusses key events and people involved in the Space Race between the United States and Soviet Union from the late 1950s through the 1960s and early 1970s. It includes the launch of early satellites like Sputnik 1 and Echo 1A by both countries, early manned spaceflights by astronauts like Alan Shepard, John Glenn, and Yuri Gagarin, and culminated with the Apollo 11 mission that landed Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on the Moon in 1969.
This document summarizes the discovery of a transiting circumbinary planet (PH1) in a quadruple star system by volunteers with the Planet Hunters citizen science project. PH1 orbits outside a 20-day eclipsing binary consisting of an F dwarf and an M dwarf star. It has a radius of 6.18 ± 0.17 R⊕ and an upper mass limit of 169 M⊕. Beyond PH1's orbit is a distant visual binary bound to the system, making this the first known case of a transiting planet in a quadruple star configuration. Planet Hunters volunteers identified transit features in the Kepler light curve of KIC 4862625 through visual inspection and discussion, leading to the confirmation and characterization
The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a satellite-based navigation system that provides location and time information to receivers anywhere on Earth. It was developed by the U.S. military in the 1970s and became fully operational in 1994. GPS uses a constellation of satellites that continuously transmit their positions and the current time, allowing receivers to determine their location by calculating the time delay of signals from at least four satellites.
Cancellation of the Constellation Program and Future of NASAJohn Knowles
The document discusses the cancellation of NASA's Constellation program by President Obama and the future of American human spaceflight. It outlines the history and goals of the Constellation program, the reasons for its cancellation due to budget cuts, and arguments from supporters of its continuation regarding national defense, jobs, and scientific discovery. Alternatives like privatizing spaceflight are mentioned but seen as insufficient to replace NASA's role. The summary concludes the cancellation leaves NASA without direction and could end America's leadership in space.
This document discusses the future opportunities for commercial spaceflight. It begins by reviewing the history of government-funded space programs since Yuri Gagarin's flight in 1961, noting the small number of flights per year on average. It then discusses key events that enabled private spaceflight, including Paul Allen's funding of SpaceShipOne, which won the X Prize in 2004. The document advocates for creating a regulatory environment similar to the early aviation industry to spur innovation, competition, and reduced costs in private spaceflight to inspire future generations. It provides perspectives on technology cycles in transportation and argues for applying aviation's "natural selection" approach to space research and development.
Beyond The Final Frontier Ii The Rising Dragonnbelarbi
Three countries have launched humans into space: Russia, the US, and China. China has made major strides in its space program, becoming only the third nation to conduct manned space missions. It has also increased its annual launches, with 11 in 2008, surpassing the US. China aims to send humans around the moon by 2015 and to the moon by 2024. It sees its growing space capabilities as a way to boost national prestige and control communications, while also posing a challenge to the historic dominance of Russia and the US in space.
China has made significant progress in its space program over the past 50 years, developing satellites, launch vehicles, launch sites, tracking and command capabilities, and manned spaceflight. Some key achievements include independently developing and launching over 80 satellite types, 117 successful launches of Long March rockets, establishing three launch sites and control centers, and completing multiple manned Shenzhou missions including China's first spacewalk in 2008. China also cooperates bilaterally and multilaterally with other countries and groups on peaceful uses of outer space.
Nasa, post apollo and the rise of the space shuttle - a glance at the definit...PublicLeaker
This document provides background on NASA's plans for post-Apollo space activities in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It discusses how NASA advocated for developing a reusable Space Shuttle and modular space station. NASA estimated costs of over $20 billion for developing these systems. However, political support was weakening as Apollo ended. President Nixon established a Space Task Group to review options, as NASA faced pressures to reduce budgets. Different groups debated priorities for human or robotic spaceflight in the coming decade.
Nasa, post apollo and the rise of the space shuttle - a glance at the definit...PublicLeaks
This document provides background on NASA's plans for post-Apollo space activities in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It discusses how NASA advocated for developing a reusable Space Shuttle and modular space station. NASA estimated costs of over $20 billion for developing these systems. However, political support was weakening as Apollo ended. President Nixon established a Space Task Group to review options, as NASA faced pressures to reduce budgets. Different groups debated priorities for human and robotic spaceflight in the coming decade.
NASA was established in 1958 in response to the Soviet Union's launch of Sputnik and the space race of the Cold War era. Its early missions included Project Mercury (1961-1963) which put the first Americans in space, Project Gemini (1965-1966) which practiced space operations like docking and spacewalks, and Project Apollo (1968-1972) which achieved President Kennedy's goal of landing astronauts on the Moon by 1972. NASA's successful Moon landings during Apollo represented one of the largest technological achievements in U.S. history.
The document discusses the major milestones in the development of America's space program from 1961 to the present. It describes four major campaigns - Mercury, Gemini, Apollo, and the Space Shuttle - that built upon each other and allowed for increasing levels of space exploration. Key events included the first American in space during Mercury, long duration and extravehicular flights during Gemini, the first lunar landing in 1969 by Apollo 11, and ongoing construction of the International Space Station by the Space Shuttle program.
To get an object into space, it must reach a speed of 28,000 km/h to overcome Earth's gravity. The first recorded rocket was Archytas's "pigeon." The Soviet Union launched Sputnik I in 1957, the first artificial satellite about the size of a basketball. The second Soviet satellite was significant because it carried living creatures into space, setting the path for human space travel. Rockets use Newton's third law - for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction - to propel themselves by ejecting exhaust in one direction. The three main parts of a rocket are the payload, propellant, and engines. Scientists are studying ion drives and solar sails as alternatives to rocket engines for long
Uncovering the Mysteries of the Space Shuttle Program - ftknows.pdfWarrior71
Uncovering the Mysteries of the Space Shuttle Program - ftknows
Top 10 Facts About Space Shuttle! - ftknows
Uncovering the Mysteries of the Space Shuttle Program
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List
Fact 1: The Space Shuttle was the world's first reusable spacecraft
Fact 2: The Space Shuttle was a complex and advanced spacecraft
Fact 3: The Space Shuttle was designed to be launched like a rocket and land like an airplane
Fact 4: The Space Shuttle was capable of carrying large payloads into space
Fact 5: The Space Shuttle was responsible for several major space missions
Fact 6: The Space Shuttle program faced several challenges and setbacks
Fact 7: The Space Shuttle program had a significant impact on science and engineering
Fact 8: The Space Shuttle program was not the only reusable spacecraft program
Fact 9: The Space Shuttle program was operated by NASA
Fact 10: The Space Shuttle program has left a lasting legacy
The Space Shuttle program was one of the most exciting and important achievements in human space exploration history. It involved launching spacecraft into Earth orbit and beyond, as well as conducting research and experimentation in space. The program was active for over 30 years, from 1981 to 2011, and it has left a significant legacy in science, engineering, and space technology.
In this article, we'll look at the top 10 facts about the Space Shuttle program, from its design and construction to its missions and achievements.
"Uncovering the Mysteries of the Space Shuttle Program"
Fact 1: The Space Shuttle was the world's first reusable spacecraft
The Space Shuttle was the first spacecraft that could be launched into space, return to Earth, and be launched again on a subsequent mission. This was a significant departure from earlier spacecraft, which were designed as one-time-use vehicles that were discarded after completing their mission.
The reusable nature of the Space Shuttle made it possible to conduct longer and more complex missions, as well as to conduct experiments and research in space more efficiently. The Space Shuttle was also used to deploy and service satellites, conduct repairs to the Hubble Space Telescope, and transport crew and supplies to the International Space Station.
Fact 2: The Space Shuttle was a complex and advanced spacecraft
The Space Shuttle was a highly complex spacecraft, consisting of several components that had to work together flawlessly to ensure a successful mission. The Space Shuttle consisted of the Orbiter, which was the vehicle that carried the crew and payloads into space; the External Tank, which held the liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen that powered the Shuttle's main engines; and the Solid Ro
Beyond The Final Frontier Iii The Indian Dreamnbelarbi
The document summarizes developments in India's space program between 2008-2009. It notes that India successfully launched 10 satellites on a single rocket in April 2008, impressing the international community. In October 2008, India launched its first lunar probe, Chandrayaan-1, to map the moon's surface. The document outlines India's ambitions to launch its own GPS and satellite imaging systems, and send its first manned mission to space in 2015 and land astronauts on the moon by 2025. It compares India's low-cost space program favorably to other countries, noting Chandrayaan-1 was the cheapest lunar mission to date.
Space Travel discusses the history and benefits of human space exploration. Key events include the first human spaceflight by Yuri Gagarin in 1961, the first Indian astronaut Rakesh Sharma flying aboard Soyuz T-11 in 1984, and ongoing developments in space tourism. The document outlines how addressing challenges of space exploration expands technology, creates industries, and fosters international cooperation.
Space exploration involves using astronomy and space technology to explore outer space. It began with rocket development in the early 20th century and allowed physical space exploration. The early era was a space race between the US and USSR, marked by firsts like Sputnik and Apollo 11. Since then, focus has shifted to cooperation and private interests in space tourism and exploration. Many countries now have plans for future manned missions to destinations like the Moon and Mars.
The International Space Station has been a long-term collaborative project between many countries beginning in 1984 when President Reagan proposed creating a permanently inhabited space station. Construction began in 1998 but faced many delays and challenges including funding issues and the 2003 Columbia shuttle disaster. By 2009, the main structural elements were completed, allowing the station to support its goal of a six person crew to conduct important scientific research in low Earth orbit.
Space Science for Mankind : India & Russia comparisionVishal Pandey
The space age started with the launch of first Russian satellite Sputnik 1 on 4 October 1957.Ever since,the rocket powered launch vehicles carried state of the art scientific equipment to explore moon , the sun , solar system and the cosmos. This resulted in designing and fabricating the instruments having more than 6000000 components with reliability greater than 99.9999%. In 1960s man landed on moon and in 1970s the planetary exploration continued the space march. The comet Halley, which orbits the sun in about 76 years was photographed from a distance of about 500 kms in the year 1986. The success of launch and recovery of Space Shuttle made the space just another location in 1980s. This opened a variety of new vistas of science and technologyThe space age started with the launch of first Russian satellite Sputnik 1 on 4 October 1957.Ever since,the rocket powered launch vehicles carried state of the art scientific equipment to explore moon , the sun , solar system and the cosmos. This resulted in designing and fabricating the instruments having more than 6000000 components with reliability greater than 99.9999%. In 1960s man landed on moon and in 1970s the planetary exploration continued the space march. The comet Halley, which orbits the sun in about 76 years was photographed from a distance of about 500 kms in the year 1986. The success of launch and recovery of Space Shuttle made the space just another location in 1980s. This opened a variety of new vistas of science and technology
Overview of news from IAC 2013, Beijing-China. Presented at the IAF evening organised by NVR (Netherlands Space Society) at the National Aerospace Laboratory NLR on 14 November 2013.
Space research involves scientific studies carried out in outer space using scientific equipment. It includes various disciplines like Earth science, materials science, biology, medicine, and physics. Space research emerged after World War II based on advancing rocket technology and includes fields like earth observations, geodesy, space physics, planetology, astronomy, materials sciences, life sciences, and physics. Some notable space research missions and satellites include the Upper Atmosphere Research Satellite, International Gamma-Ray Astrophysics Laboratory, Hubble Space Telescope, Salyut 1, Skylab, and Mir space stations. India has also made significant contributions to space research through organizations like ISRO.
Jessica Brothers discusses key technological advancements that have expanded human knowledge of space. The telescope, satellites, and the Space Race between the US and Soviet Union in the 1950s-60s helped develop new technologies. Future goals include building a space colony in orbit, new spacecraft, and continued scientific experiments on the International Space Station. Advances in space technology will help uncover more mysteries and greatly impact life on Earth.
This document summarizes the history of space exploration, beginning with early experiments with rockets and satellites in the 20th century. It discusses key events like the launch of Sputnik 1, the founding of NASA, and the first missions that sent animals (dogs) into space to test the viability of life support systems before human spaceflight. The overall goal of space exploration is discussed - to answer fundamental questions about what exists in space and how resources there could benefit life on Earth, while better understanding our planet and solar system through observation and research beyond our atmosphere.
The space program has led to many technological advances. Space technology in the past included Gemini missions to lay the groundwork for the moon landing. Current space technology includes the Juno mission to Jupiter and satellites that collect data. The space program has positively affected society by enabling the first moon landing and Mars rovers, and launching satellites. Its progress is like that depicted in the film October Sky, where failures lead to iterative improvements. Key events in the space program timeline include John Glenn's orbital flight in 1962, Gordon Cooper's 22-orbit flight in 1963, and the first operational Gemini mission in 1965.
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1. Order Code RS21641
Updated October 18, 2005
CRS Report for Congress
Received through the CRS Web
China’s Space Program: An Overview
Marcia S. Smith
Specialist in Aerospace and Telecommunications Policy
Resources, Science, and Industry Division
Summary
The People’s Republic of China successfully completed its second human
spaceflight mission on October 17, 2005. China is only the third country, after Russia
and the United States, able to launch people into space. Its first human spaceflight was
in 2003 when a single astronaut, or “taikonaut,” made a flight lasting slightly less than
a day. The 2005 flight lasted five days, and involved two taikonauts. As the United
States embarks upon President Bush’s “Vision for Space Exploration” to return
astronauts to the Moon by 2020 and someday send them to Mars, some may view
China’s entrance into the human exploration of space as a competitive threat, while
others may view China as a potential partner. This report will be updated as warranted.
Introduction
China has been launching satellites since 1970. Most of the launches are of Chinese
communications, weather, remote sensing, navigation, or scientific satellites. Some of
those satellites may be for military applications, or are dual use. Some were commercial
launches for foreign countries or companies, primarily placing communications satellites
into orbit. China launched its first astronaut, or “taikonaut,”1 in October 2003.
China has three space launch sites: Jiuquan (also called Shuang Cheng-tzu) in the
Gobi desert; Xichang, in southeastern China (near Chengdu); and Taiyuan, south of
Beijing. Jiuquan was China’s first launch site, and is used for launches of a variety of
spacecraft, including those related to the human spaceflight program. Xichang,
inaugurated in 1984, is used for launches into geostationary orbit (above the equator),
primarily communications satellites. Taiyuan, opened in 1988, is used for launches into
polar orbits (that circle the Earth’s poles), primarily weather and other Earth observation
satellites. China has several different launch vehicles; most are called Chang Zheng (CZ,
1
The term “taikonaut” for Chinese astronaut was popularized by an independent Chinese space
analyst, Chen Lan, who operates the “Go Taikonauts” unofficial Chinese space website
[http://www.geocities.com/CapeCanaveral/Launchpad/1921/]. According to Mr. Chen, other
Chinese terms for astronaut are “yahangyuan,”“hangtianyuan,” and “taikogren.”
Congressional Research Service ˜ The Library of Congress
2. CRS-2
meaning Long March). Versions of the CZ 2 are used at Jiuquan; the CZ 2F is used for
launches associated with its human spaceflight program. Versions of the CZ 3 and some
CZ 2 variants are used at Xichang. CZ 4 is used at Taiyuan.
China’s Human Spaceflight Program
China’s First Taikonaut and the Shenzhou Spacecraft. On October 15,
2003 (GMT), China launched its first taikonaut — People’s Liberation Army Lt. Col.
Yang Liwei — into space aboard the Shenzhou 5 (Divine Vessel) spacecraft. Lt. Col.
Yang landed on October 16, 2003 Beijing time, after a 21 hour 23 minute flight.
China’s program to launch humans into space started in 1992 and is designated by
the Chinese as “Project 921.” (An earlier effort was discontinued due to economic
pressures.) Two Chinese specialists trained at Russia’s cosmonaut training facility in Star
City (near Moscow) in 1997. According to Chinese press reports, the taikonaut corps
consists of 12 trainees and two trainers, all fighter pilots.
The Shenzhou spacecraft design is patterned after Russia’s Soyuz spacecraft,
although the Chinese insist that the spacecraft are made entirely in China. Shenzhou
consists of three modules: the descent module, a service module, and an orbital module.
At the end of the primary mission, the descent module and service module detach from
the orbital module. The service module positions the descent module correctly for reentry
and fires its engines to initiate descent. It detaches from the descent module and
disintegrates in the atmosphere as the descent module returns to Earth. The orbital
module typically remains in orbit for several months. It has its own propulsion system,
allowing it to make maneuvers. On some of the test flights, experiments were carried on
the orbital module in addition to those in the descent module. Four orbital test flights of
the Shenzhou spacecraft were conducted without crews between 1999 and 2003, in
preparation for the flight of Shenzhou 5.
Shenzhou 6: Two Taikonauts on a Five-Day Mission. China launched its
second human spaceflight mission on October 12, 2005 GMT (October 11, EDT).
Carrying two taikonauts, Fei Junlong and Nie Haisheng, the Shenzhou 6 descent module
successfully returned to Earth on October 17 after about five days (115 hours and 32
minutes). In addition to learning more about human spaceflight in general, the crew
carried out scientific experiments. The Shenzhou 6 orbital module remains in orbit.
Future Plans, Including the Moon. Chinese officials have been quoted
discussing a three-step human spaceflight plan: send humans into Earth orbit, dock
spacecraft together to form a small laboratory, and ultimately build a large space station.2
Following the landing of the Shenzhou 6 crew, a Chinese space official said that a
mission including a spacewalk was planned for 2007, and a mission involving rendezvous
and docking planned for the 2009-2012 time period.
Whether the Chinese are planning to send humans to the Moon has become a topical
subject since President Bush announced plans for the United States to return astronauts
2
Lu Pi. Manned Space Flights: A Foreseeable Goal. Beijing Review (Internet Version-WWW)
in English, May 9, 2002 (via Foreign Broadcast Information Service, hereafter “FBIS”).
3. CRS-3
to the Moon (see CRS Report RS21720). From Chinese sources, the answer appears to
be that such a mission may be under discussion, but there is no definitive program or
timetable.
Most Chinese reports regarding lunar exploration plans discuss robotic, rather than
human, missions. An oft-cited three-step scenario calls for the launch of a robotic
spacecraft to orbit the Moon in 2007, then a robotic mission to land a rover on the Moon
around 2010, and finally a robotic probe to return lunar samples to Earth around 2020.3
The first step of that plan, to build a probe to orbit the Moon, is underway. The launch
of the probe, named Chang’e, is expected in 2007. Chinese space officials quoted in the
Chinese media rarely mention plans to send humans to the Moon. However, reports on
Chinese websites in 2002 and 2005 discussed a three-step plan to do so. The plan begins
with human trips to Earth orbit, including Earth-orbiting space laboratories; then robotic
probes to the Moon; and ultimately a human landing on the Moon.4 No timetable for the
human lunar landing portion was provided in those stories. However, a 2005 report in a
non-Chinese government owned newspaper quoted a “designer with the Chinese Lunar
Orbiting Exploration” program as describing another version of the three-step plan: a
robotic lunar orbiter in 2007; robotic probes to land on the moon and collect samples over
4-5 years; and “if things go well, we will send astronauts to the moon by 2020.”5
Still, other Chinese space official assert they cannot be in a “space race” with other
countries, citing factors such as China’s comparatively low per-capita gross domestic
product, the gap between urban and rural areas, the lack of medical insurance for its 800
million farmers, and the lack of a rocket powerful enough to send people to the Moon.6
Guiding Principles and Funding
The Chinese government published a “White Paper” in November 2000 outlining
its goals and guiding principles for the space program. The first principle is —
— Adhering to the principle of long-term, stable and sustainable development and
making the development of space activities cater to and serve the state’s
comprehensive development strategy. The Chinese government attaches great
importance to the significant role of space activities in implementing the strategy of
revitalizing the country with science and education and that of sustainable
development, as well as in economic construction, national security, science and
technology development and social progress. The development of space activities is
3
For example, see China’s Lunar Probe Program Facing 3 Major Difficulties: Project Chief
Commander. Xinhua, September 9, 2005 (via Factiva).
4
(1) Wang Qian. China to Land on Moon by 2010. Beijing Zhongguo Wang WWW-Text in
English, October 26, 2002 (via FBIS, which describes the source as an official PRC Internet site).
(2) Yang Haiying and Shen Yanbin. PRC: Article Examines Preparations for Shenzhou VI, Plans
for Moon Flight. Shanghai Xinwen Chenbao, September 28, 2005 (via FBIS).
5
Kristine Kwok. Shooting for the Moon and Beyond. Hong Kong South China Morning Post
(Internet Version-WWW) in English, October 7, 2005 (via FBIS, which describes the source as
Hong Kong’s most prominent non-PRC-owned English-language daily newspaper).
6
For example, see Xinhua ‘News Analysis’: More on China Has No Intention of Vying With
Others in Space. Beijing Xinhua in English, October 17, 2005, 0550 GMT (via FBIS).
4. CRS-4
encouraged and supported by the government as an integral part of the state’s
comprehensive development strategy.7
Xinhua, China’s official news service, stated in October 2005 that China spent 19
billion yuan (about $2 billion) on Shenzhou 1-5, and 900 million yuan (about $110
million) on Shenzhou 6 (currency conversions are from the Xinhua text).8 Annual
spending on the total Chinese space program is difficult to ascertain. Dr. Joan Johnson-
Freese, chair of the Department of National Security Studies at the Naval War College,
estimates that China spends $1.4 billion-$2.2 billion annually on space, but cautions
against direct comparisons with U.S. space spending because of currency conversion
issues, China’s command economy, and “deliberate over-employment.”9
Commercial Space Launch Activities
China announced its intention to enter the commercial space launch business in
1986. (Commercial space launch competition is discussed in CRS Issue Brief IB93062.)
Chinese launch services are marketed through China Great Wall Industries Corporation
(CGWIC). Virtually all communications satellites requiring commercial launch services
are built in the United States or include U.S. components, so U.S. export licenses must
be granted to send the satellites to China for launch. The United States thus has played a
key role in the evolution of the Chinese commercial launch services business. In 1988,
the Reagan Administration approved the first export licenses for three satellites to be sent
to China on the condition that China sign three international treaties concerning, among
other things, liability for damage from space launches; negotiate a fair trade agreement
with the United States regarding launch services; and reach agreement on protecting
technology from being transferred while satellites are in China. All conditions were met
by January 1989. At that time, commercial communications satellites were on the U.S.
Munitions List and export license requests were handled by the State Department.
Following the Tiananmen Square uprising in June 1989, the Bush Administration
suspended all export licenses for items on the Munitions List, including the three
satellites. The suspension was ultimately lifted, and the satellites were launched by China.
The incident underscored the coupling of commercial communications satellites
export licenses and overall relationships between the United States and China. The 1990s
witnessed repeated instances where export licenses would be granted, suspended, and
reinstated, depending on the political situation. In 1997, allegations surfaced that China
was obtaining militarily useful information by launching U.S. satellites. The charges
concerned investigations into launch failures involving U.S.-built satellites where two
U.S. companies (Loral and Hughes) allegedly assisted China in understanding the cause
of the accidents and how to remedy them. By that time, responsibility for commercial
communications satellite exports had been shifted from the State Department to the
Commerce Department. In response to the allegations, Congress returned export
7
White Paper: “Full Text” of ‘China’s Space Activities.’ Beijing Xinhua in English, November
22, 2000, 0211 GMT (via FBIS).
8
Xinhua ‘News Analysis, op. cit.
9
Joan Johnson-Freese. September 29, 2003 presentation to Center for Strategic and International
Studies [http://www.csis.org/china/030929johnson-freese.pdf]. Dr. Freese authored The Chinese
Space Program: Mystery Within a Maze, Malaber, Florida, Kreiger Publishing Co., 1998.
5. CRS-5
responsibility to the State Department as of March 15, 1999. The State Department has
not granted any export licenses for sending communications satellites to China since then,
and Chinese commercial space launch operations consequently have been suspended.
(See CRS Issue Brief IB93062 for more details on the Loral/Hughes controversy and the
financial penalties imposed on the companies in settlements with the U.S. government.)
Military Space Activities
Chinese officials routinely call for using space for peaceful purposes, and argue
against the militarization of space in settings such as the U.N. Conference on
Disarmament. However, the November 2000 White Paper includes national security as
one of the purposes served by the space program, and China’s remote sensing,
communications, and navigation satellites presumably satisfy both military and civilian
objectives. The Chinese space program is conducted by the China Aerospace Science and
Technology Corporation (abbreviated CASC by the Chinese), a state-owned enterprise
that develops and manufactures strategic and tactical missiles in addition to spacecraft,
launch vehicles, and other aerospace products. CGWIC (see above) is a part of CASC.
CASC’s website is [http://www.spacechina.com].
The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) publishes an annual report on “Military
Power of the People’s Republic of China.” The current edition (2005), available at
[http://www.defenselink.mil/news/Jul2005/d20050719china.pdf], discusses China’s
efforts to develop new space and “counterspace” systems (pp. 35-36). The DOD report
lists a number of activities that are ongoing, or in which China appears interested, that
DOD asserts have potential military applications: the human spaceflight program; remote
sensing satellites; electronic intelligence satellites; and an assortment of what DOD
describes as small satellites (not further defined), microsatellites (weighing less than 100
kilograms), and minisatellites (weighing between 101- and 500 kilograms). The missions
for those various classes of small satellites include remote sensing, communications, and
navigation. The DOD report states that in the next decade, China “most likely will field
radar, ocean surveillance, and improved film-based photoreconnaissance satellites. China
will eventually deploy advanced imagery, reconnaissance, and Earth resource systems
with military applications.” Finally, the report states that China “is working on, and plans
to field, [antisatellite] systems,” including conducting research to develop ground-based
laser antisatellite weapons.
International Cooperation
China is very interested in international cooperation in space. The 2000 White Paper
discusses it extensively, and China has cooperative arrangements with several countries,
including Russia, Brazil, and Europe.
As for cooperation with the United States, there is no government-to-government
level cooperation. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has
reported in the past, however, that it has engaged in low level scientific cooperation, data
exchanges, and participation in multilateral coordination groups with China. China has
expressed interest in participating in the U.S.-led International Space Station (ISS)
program (for more on the ISS, see CRS Issue Brief IB93017, Space Stations, by Marcia
S. Smith). The United States has declined to bring China into the program.
6. CRS-6
Following the Shenzhou 5 flight, President Bush congratulated Chinese President
Hu [http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2003/10/20031019-5.html] and wished
China continued success. Then-NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe called Shenzhou 5
an “important achievement in human exploration” and wished China “a continued safe
human space flight program.”10 His successor, Dr. Michael Griffin, issued a statement
congratulating China on Shenzhou 6 [http://www.nasa.gov/home/hqnews/2005/oct/
HQ_05343_Griffin_China_statement.html].
President Bush announced a new Vision for Space Exploration for NASA in January
2004, directing the agency to focus its activities on returning humans to the Moon and
someday sending them to Mars. He invited other countries to join. In November 2004,
NASA sponsored an “international exploration workshop” for other countries interested
in the Vision, and Chinese space officials participated. The head of the Chinese space
agency, Laiyan Sun, made a courtesy call on Mr. O’Keefe. Those actions sparked
discussion of whether China might be included in implementing the Vision. In January
2005, the trade publication Aviation Week & Space Technology (AW&ST) quoted Mr.
O’Keefe as supporting cooperation with China: “The Bush Administration now believes
that ‘measured and appropriate levels of space cooperation with China’ are viable,
O’Keefe told AW&ST.”11 Dr. Griffin released an implementation plan for the Vision in
September 2005 that did not focus on the role that other countries might play.
Representative Ken Calvert, chairman of the Space and Aeronautics subcommittee
of the House Science Committee, was quoted by AW&ST in October 2005 as expressing
concern that China might send humans to the Moon before NASA returns astronauts
there. “Even if we follow the president’s vision and we’re back to the Moon by 2020, I
also serve on the Armed Service [sic] Committee, so I have the ability to look at a lot of
things. ... And looking at things that are not classified, more than likely the Chinese will
be on the Moon before that. I would rather be on the Moon to greet the Chinese rather
than going to the Moon and have the Chinese greet us.”12 He reportedly added that “Any
cooperation with the Chinese at this point I suspect would be more one-way than it would
be two-way. Plus the fact that we need to be cautious about how we go about doing
[cooperation] and what our policy should be. So I would be careful.” The AW&ST
article cautioned, however, that Representative Calvert’s assessment that China might
land astronauts on the Moon before the United States returns there had a “risk it could
backfire over the long term if it becomes clear he was bluffing.” Citing an unnamed
congressional source, the AW&ST article stated “it would be hard to make an argument
that the U.S. is in a race to the Moon when China has only one human orbital flight under
its belt and is preparing to send two men on a five-day mission ... reminiscent of ... Soviet
... flights in the 1960s.”
10
NASA press release 03-333, October 14, 2003.
11
Craig Covault. The China Card. Aviation Week & Space Technology, January 31, 2005, p.
27.
12
Frank Morring, Jr. Space Race Redux. Aviation Week & Space Technology, October 3, 2005,
p. 24-25.