After conquering the land, the sea, and the sky mankind’s eyes have set to conquer Space. On October 4, 1957, mankind launched Sputnik 1, the first man-made object into space. The satellite, which was a polished metal sphere of 58 cm diameter, with four external radio antennas to broadcast radio pulses, orbited earth for three weeks before its batteries died and then orbited silently for two months before it fell back into the atmosphere. Sputnik marked the beginning of man’s exploration into space and also triggered the “Space Race” between the Soviet Union and the United States.
Since 1957, we have launched numerous satellites that orbit the earth and other planets, rovers, and landers on extraterrestrial bodies, a space telescope, the International Space Station (roughly the size of a football field), and manned missions to earth’s orbit and the moon. Space exploration has not only helped us know more about other planets but also helped us know more about the earth and helped advance technology, improving our lives in the process.
With the depletion of Earth’s resources due to the continuous increase in the human population, our search for minerals has extended to other planets. We are now looking at mars as the next home for humans. Orbiters, landers, and rovers have already been sent to explore and study Mars in detail. The understanding of the red planet has improved possibilities for mankind to settle there. With the increase of private interests in space exploration, space tourism has become something to really look forward to. Soon, you could take that well-needed break from work in space by looking at the earth and the stars while sipping your favorite drink. The possibility of a trip to space for leisure has made the space industry more exciting and profitable.
In the future, no part of Space will be unreachable for mankind. Conquering space will be the ultimate achievement and it’s impossible for anyone to not be excited. Your kids could be part of the effort to reach for the stars. To prepare kids for their exploration of space, Labrynthe is organizing a 5-week interactive online workshop on Astronomy. The workshop facilitated by expert Astronomers for your kids will include hands-on experience by conducting experiments just like the scientists at space organizations like ISRO and NASA.
