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The role of space related non-governmental organizations (NGOs)

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The role of space related non-governmental organizations (NGOs)in capacity buildingA.Lukaszczyk a ,R.Williamson b,*aSpace Generation Advisory Council (SGAC),c/o European Space Policy Institute,Schwarzenbergplatz 6,A-1030Vienna,AustriabSecure World Foundation (SWF),314W Charles St,Superior,CO 80027,United StatesReceived 8November 2008;received in revised form 16September 2009;accepted 7October 2009AbstractNon-governmental organizations (NGOs)play a unique role in international affairs,providing access to resources,expertise,and assistance to supplement State resources.Sometimes the diplomatic skills and unofficial access of NGOs to policymakers through Track Two diplomacy can move a previously stalled critical issue forward and assist policymakers from different countries to find common ground outside official channels.Because they work outside of official channels,they are not bound by State policy that may inhibit nego-tiations between States.Some also have a convening power that sometimes makes it possible for State representatives to meet discipline experts and each other for informal discussions on issues of mutual interest.Finally,NGOs can draw attention to issues that may be overlooked or avoided by State organizations.This paper examines the ways in which NGOs can assist in building scientific,technical,educational,and legal and policy expertise related to space and Earth science,technology and governance of space activities.In particular,it will explore and analyze the ways in which organizations such as the Space Generation Advisory Council,EURISY,the Planetary Society and Secure World Foundation contribute to building capacity in developing countries.Ó2009COSPAR.Published by Elsevier Ltd.All rights reserved.Keywords:Capacity building;Non-governmental organization;Outer space1.What is an NGO?Throughout the world,there are approximately 40,000internationally operating Non-Governmental Organiza-tions (NGOs)(Anheier et al.,2001)and many more work-ing on the national levels.In India alone,between one and two million registered NGOs operate within the country (/ngosection/newcomers/what-isanngo.htm,2009).The numbers illustrate that work of these entities is indeed needed and extends throughout the globe.Hence the question arises,what do they do and how do they operate?Usually private persons,without participation of any government,create NGOs;thus,NGOs do not have gov-ernmental membership.They are usually created with a specific vision in mind,a purpose or a cause,about which an element of civil society feels strongly.Historically,NGOs deal with issues of human rights,environment,equality,and peace.It was the United Nations (UN),which in 1945with provisions in the Article 71of Chapter 10of the UN Charter (United Nations,2009)popularized the phrase “non-governmental organizations ”.The United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)on Feb-ruary 27,1950defined an International NGO (INGO)in resolution 288(X),as “any international organization that is not founded by an international treaty ”.Finally,Chapter 27of the Agenda 21recognized the significant role NGOs have played in sustainable development,including capac-ity-building:“Non-governmental organizations play a vital role in the shaping and implementation of participatory democracy.Their credibility lies in the responsible and con-structive role they play in society.”(United Nations,1992)0273-1177/$36.00Ó2009COSPAR.Published by Elsevier Ltd.All rights reserved.doi:10.1016/j.asr.2009.10.004*Corresponding author.Tel.:+13035010430;fax:+13035541562.E-mail address:rwilliamson@ (R.Williamson)./locate/asrAvailable online at Advances in Space Research 45(2010)468–472This recognition led to establishment of the consultative relationship between the UN and NGOs(United Nations Economic and Council,1996).In recent decades NGOs have played increasingly important roles on the international scene.Many issues could not be solved without the participation of NGOs, which are often able to unite people in ways governments cannot,as theyfill societal niches governments simply do not,or do notfill sufficiently well.Countries and regions in which NGOs are present are more likely to develop cooperative approaches to problem solving,which results in a lower probability for conflict.What is unique about NGOs is that the people who are members and or participants share a common passion,ide-als,values that bring them together despite other differ-ences.Many NGOs are solely volunteer-based yet are extremely active and beneficial to the causes for which they are working.This illustrates that a strong belief in social values can be enough of a motivator for people to work together on common issues even if there is no monetary reward.Accomplishing an important goal is sufficient reward.Because NGOs mostly work on the grassroots level and are generally highly focused,they are able to understand the problems of civil society as well as their needs.The hands-on experience and the direct engagement in grass-roots activities,while remaining largely independent of political influences,allows NGOs to serve as a bridge between civil society and governments,multinational cor-porations,and international organizations.Various NGOs work towards building scientific or tech-nical capacity of various sorts within countries and regions. Some may focus on providing the know-how to use local materials for simple technologies to assist in basic tasks like drawing water or cooking;others center their efforts on instilling an interest in reading or science in order to improve the basic educational foundations of a group;still others focus on alerting other organizations or government agencies to the possibilities of a new approach to governing.2.Space related NGOsNGOs are active in many different sectors,including the space sector.Their work in the space sector contributes to outreach activities,education,space awareness,and most important,capacity building.Unfortunately,outer space actors still tend to operate as a closed club,which is not very accessible to those who are not members of the sector already.Therefore NGOs play an important part in mak-ing space activities more understandable to the direct ben-eficiaries and the general public,thus gaining their support for space activities.Especially in the developing world,space related NGOs educate the local communities on the direct benefits of space technologies and how space impacts their lives. Through workshops,conferences,and lectures more local people have an opportunity to educate themselves regard-ing space matters,interact with space professionals and take the knowledge they gained back to their communities.This paper examines work of four selected NGOs:Space Generation Advisory Council(SGAC),EURISY,The Planetary Society and Secure World Foundation(SWF), all of which are involved in capacity building in various areas of the world in terms of outer space.Each of these NGOs is different in its nature.SGAC consists nearly entirely of volunteers;EURISY has other organizations and agencies as members,The Planetary Society has paid members and volunteers;and SWF is a private foundation. Those NGOs were specifically chosen to illustrate the diversity the makeup,size and character of NGOs that have a role in the space sector and assist with capacity building.3.Space generation advisory council(SGAC)The Space Generation Advisory Council in Support of the United Nations Programme on Space Applications (SGAC)represents young people(students and young pro-fessionals)between the ages of19and35at the United Nations,other international organizations,governments, and space agencies.SGAC was created in1999at UNI-SPACE III where space leaders from all over the world reached the conclusion that youth should have a specific voice in outer space matters at the United Nations.There-fore parallel to UNISPACE III,160young people from60 countries worked together in the Space Generation Forum to generate the Declaration of Space Generation.The main points of this declaration clearly illustrate the role that space related NGOs should play in terms of capacity building:Office of Outer Space Affairs(OOSA)and UNESCO should promote the integration of space into education cur-ricula of UN member states.This dissemination of resources and knowledge should be a cooperative effort between corpo-rations,Non-Governmental Organizations,and Governments on both domestic and international levels to improve literacy, space knowledge,public awareness and support.Given many programs throughout the world currently exist with the ideal of reaching developing countries with need-solving space technologies,we recommend a UN endorsed strategic plan which would implement these technol-ogies with cultural and ecological sensitivity in exchange for the discontinuation of globally harmful activities(Space Generation,1999).In order to fulfill its mandate,SGAC has been accorded permanent observer status in the UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space(COPUOS)and consultative status with UNECOSOC so that it could formally and peri-odically report its activities to the UN.SGAC has a true global network with over4000mem-bers worldwide who communicate and work together via e-mail lists,online forums and online projects,local,regio-nal and international workshops,conferences and variousA.Lukaszczyk,R.Williamson/Advances in Space Research45(2010)468–472469grassroots activities.The organization has two Regional Coordinators(RCs)each from the six UN regions,and currently66National Points of Contact(NPoCs).The organization focuses on impacting policymaking through research and presentation of the opinions and ideas of the youth of the world about space activities. SGAC’s input to the space policy process includes regular reports to the member states of UN COPUOS,including the Action Teams that derived from UNISPACE III.In addition,SGAC provides input to national and interna-tional space agencies and to governmental entities dealing with space.For instance,SGAC was the only NGO invited to the Space Summit in2002in Houston,which gathered major space companies,high-level space experts,and heads of space agencies to discuss the future of space activities. SGAC was also invited by the European Commission to provide the perspective of the future European space work-force during the consultation process for the Green Paper on the European Space Policy.(Space Generation,2009) Having such impact on policy making motivates the members of SGAC to participate actively in its activities on national,regional,and international levels.Because members know that through SGAC they have access to the UN and various high-level space officials,they can address the issues they care about and have their voices heard.For instance,in2007,members of the SGAC South American region wrote reports on the space situation in their respective countries,which were then delivered to COPUOS delegates.In addition to its policy focus,SGAC carries out a num-ber of capacity-building projects around the world,includ-ing ones on education,space security,and outreach.SGAC sends its members to local schools to teach such subjects as astrophysics,astrobiology,astronomy,science and tech-nology and sustainable development.Also SGAC orga-nizes space awareness days,movie nights,workshops, conferences,space parties(e.g.,Yuri’s Night),and techni-cal activities.The hands on activities such as the Under the African Skies project,help to build knowledge and sci-entific confidence but most important,it allows SGAC to teach people in developing countries the impact of space technologies in their day to day lives and how they could benefit even further from space applications.Very often, after proving successful,SGAC projects become indepen-dent regional or local programs.Under African Skies is currently a successful program in sub-Saharan Africa.In 2009,young students dedicated to the cause went from Cape Town to Nairobi,Nairobi to Johannesburg,and Johannesburg to Nairobi,visiting schools and working with thousands of students along the way,introducing stu-dents to the science of astronomy and imparting basic information about the celestial sphere.Because of good relationships with the UN OOSA and UNESCO,SGAC is able to send some of its members from the developing countries,fully funded,to international conferences and workshops.This gives those young people the opportunity to interact and learn from experts in the field,but most of all,it allows them to present their ideas and thoughts in the international foras,where they can gather advice and input from people to whom they would normally have no access.Such activities also help to encourage these students to enter careers in science and technology.In summary,because of its international mandate, SGAC is able to carry out many useful activates around the globe.Its network has grown significantly in the last 10years.Thus it likes to call itself a network of networks, as it not only represents its members on the international level but it also works as an umbrella for other student and youth groups around the world.4.EURISYEURISY was created in1989with the aim of promoting the benefits of space to European society.Since then, EURISY has significantly increased its membership to include40governmental space offices and space agencies, research institutions,international organizations,and private companies involved in space,scientific and techno-logical activities.The organization has contributed signifi-cantly to matters such as:space systems for response to humanitarian crises,environmental monitoring through satellite systems,and maritime security.One of EURISY´s goals is to shape the relationship between space and the society through many outreach activities–mainly confer-ences and symposia.EURISY is independent from political influences;thus, it is able to pursue its own goals.The fact that its member-ship combines intergovernmental organizations together with other NGOs allows EURISY to facilitate and pro-mote dialogue between the civil society and space institu-tions.More over,EURISY is strategically positioned to link space actors with the wider society while rising aware-ness among decision makers,civil society and users regard-ing the use of space activities for sustainable economic, environmental and development policies(EURISY,2009).EURISY is funded primarily by the European Space Agency(ESA)and the annual contributions of its full members.Its budget and activities are approved each year by the General Assembly upon recommendations of the EURISY Council.The Council consists of the President, the Vice President and about10personalities coming from its member institutions and is convened2–3times per year.Currently EURISY is carrying out a5-year program entitled“Bridging the Gap between Space and Local and Regional Users,”which offers a discussion platform through a series of workshops and conferences to represen-tatives from European regions and cities in which to share their knowledge and experience as well as learn about new services offered by various space applications and discuss the potential challenges and issues that may arise.For instance,in March2008EURISY organized a workshop in Romania on“Local and Regional Risk Man-agement–Integrated Use of Satellite Information and470 A.Lukaszczyk,R.Williamson/Advances in Space Research45(2010)468–472Services.”124participants from19countries gathered to exchange best practices on the use of satellite information and services for dealing with risk.Through case studies and working groups participants were able to exchange ideas and learn from each other’s st year in Istanbul Turkey,EURISY organized a conference on “Areas and Mechanisms for Collaboration between Turk-ish and European Actors on Space Activities.”Key players from the Turkish and European space communities met together to discuss ways to cooperate better and to study how the two could benefit from each other and assist each other.Although EURISY mostly works on the European level, its activities,in terms of capacity building,are very needed and useful.Most Europeans are not fully aware of the many benefits space applications offer to them on a daily basis.Moreover,they do not consider space activities nec-essary in their lives.This shows a lack of knowledge and understanding of what useful tools space activities already provide to an average European.In addition to building capacity in space related topics,NGOs such as EURISY play a very important role educating civil society about the benefits they receive from space systems that are other-wise taken for granted.5.The Planetary SocietyThe Planetary Society,which was started in1980by the three American planetary astronomers,Carl Sagan,Bruce Murray and Louis Friedman,is a membership organiza-tion.According to its website,the Planetary Society is the largest public space organization in the world,with members from more than125countries.(Planetary Soci-ety,2009)The organization attempts to inspire and involve “the world’s public in space exploration through advocacy, projects,and education”.As part of its educational outreach,in2009it focused on projects associated with the International Year of Astron-omy,advocating,among other things,for increased inter-national cooperation on space exploration.Most of the Planetary Society’s educational efforts are focused on members and potential members within the United States. Nevertheless,through a series of educational projects around the world,it is increasing its influence in other countries and contributes to awareness of and education on space exploration,Earth observation,and astronomy. Where possible,it attempts to enlist the international pub-lic in advocating for international cooperation and for increased funding for space science education and missions.The Society’s website alone provides links to hundreds of scientific articles and news sources about different aspects of the Society’s interests,which is one important aspect of its capacity building.It has also sponsored con-tests on issues such as the Apophis Mission Design Compe-tition to encounter the Apophis asteroid,and provides modest grants to amateur astronomers to discover and track new asteroids.Its Target Earth program includes the“Planetary Society’s three-pronged approach to NEO research:funding researchers who discover and track aster-oids,advocating greater NEO research funding by the gov-ernment,and helping spur the development of possible ways to avert disaster should a potentially dangerous aster-oid be discovered”.Finally,the Planetary Society also publishes a magazine for members,The Planetary Report,which provides readers with articles focusing on different aspects of planetary exploration and attractive images of the heavens.This magazine,with articles written by research scientists and engineers,provides another means of reaching out to a gen-eral population with recent scientific results about the universe.6.Secure World FoundationThe Secure World Foundation(SWF)Secure World Foundation,2009is a private non-profit operating founda-tion devoted to the long term sustainability of space activ-ities,the cooperative use of space resources for the benefit of planet Earth,and the development of governance mech-anisms to cope with the long term threat posed by near Earth objects(NEOs)that strike Earth on an aperiodic basis.The Foundation acts as a research body,convener and facilitator to advocate for key space security and other space related topics and to promote effective governance of space activities.SWF believes that ensuring the long term sustainability of outer space activities is most effectively achieved through a bottom-up approach focused on(1)vigorous efforts to reduce the further generation of orbital debris,(2)develop-ment of a code of conduct for space(or rules of the road), leading eventually to an international space traffic manage-ment(STM)regime,and(3)the prevention of violent con-flict in space.SWF works with UN organizations such as COPUOS, the Conference on Disarmament,and the Office of Disar-mament Affairs to promote peaceful uses of outer space and to develop better understanding of the benefits that space activities provide to people throughout the globe. The foundation is also a major participant in promoting the long term sustainability of space activities and reduc-tion of conflict in outer space.SWF is very interested in building capacity in space pol-icy and the effective management of outer space activities. It seeks to assist emerging space countries in developing their space policies,especially in helping them to take an active part in the governance of space activities and in developing policies that will lead to the long term sustain-ability of outer space.It pursues these efforts through the development and support of workshops and conferences devoted to these topics.For example,in November2008,in partnership with the European Space Policy Institute and the International Academy of Astronautics,SWF hosted a workshop in Vienna,Austria on the Fair and Sustainable Use of OuterA.Lukaszczyk,R.Williamson/Advances in Space Research45(2010)468–472471Space,in which the needs of emerging space powers received special attention.In November2008,SWF also participated with the Stimson Center on an international workshop on space security,held in the Rockefeller Foun-dation’s Conference Center in Bellagio,Italy.This work-shop,too,explicitly included representatives from emerging space powers.Finally,SWF has recently begun a project that will assist developing countries to apply modern communica-tion tools(e.g.,smart phones,digital cameras,netbooks) to gather and process geographic information for use in a wide variety of projects that will enable local communities to manage environmental risk more effectively.As the numbers of countries instituting formal space activities increases,it will be increasingly important to assist those countries become integrated into the world community of space-capable States.Secure World Founda-tion will continue to help where it can.7.ConclusionsIn sum,NGOs have an important role in providing information,guidance,and assistance in building space capacity,especially in developing countries.The NGOs mentioned here and the many others that also provide ser-vices to civil society will continue to be a growing part of global space activities.ReferencesAnheier,H.,Glasius,M.,Kaldor,M.(Eds.),Global Civil Society2001, Oxford,2001./ngosection/newcomers/whatisanngo.htm (accessed August2009).United Nations,Chapter10,United Nations Charter./ aboutun/charter/chapt10.htm(accessed August2009).United Nations,Agenda21–Chapter27:Strengthening the Role of Non-governmental Organizations:Partners for Sustainable Develop-ment,Earth Summit,1992./agenda21/a21-27.htm (accessed August2009).United Nations Economic and Social Council,Doc.1996/31.Consultative relationship between the United Nations and non-governmental orga-nizations./documents/ecosoc/res/1996/eres1996-31.htm,(accessed August2009).Space Generation,Technical Report of the Space Generation Forum, UNISPACEIII,27July,1999./down-loads/documents/UN/sgf-technical-report-july-1999.pdf(accessed August2009).Space Generation,/About,(accessed August 2009).EURISY.(accessed August2009).The Planetary Society.(accessed August2009). Secure World Foundation. (accessed August2009).472 A.Lukaszczyk,R.Williamson/Advances in Space Research45(2010)468–472。

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移民火星计划作文作文英文

移民火星计划作文作文英文

移民火星计划作文作文英文Sure, I'd be happy to help you with that! Writing about the Mars immigration plan can be quite interesting. Let's start by outlining some key points you might want to cover in your essay:1. Introduction:- Provide background information on the idea of human settlement on Mars.- Introduce the concept of the Mars immigration plan and its significance.2. Motivations for Mars Immigration:- Discuss the scientific motivations, such as the potential for studying Martian geology and conducting experiments in a unique environment.- Explore the economic motivations, such as the potential for resource extraction and new markets.- Consider the existential motivations, such as ensuring the survival of humanity in the event of a catastrophe on Earth.3. Challenges and Risks:- Address the technical challenges, such as developingthe necessary spacecraft and life support systems.- Discuss the physiological challenges, such as the long-term effects of low gravity and radiation exposure on human health.- Consider the social and psychological challenges, such as the isolation and confinement of living in a small, enclosed space for extended periods.4. Ethical Considerations:- Reflect on the ethical implications of colonizing another planet, including issues related to environmental impact and indigenous rights (if microbial life exists on Mars).- Discuss the ethics of prioritizing space exploration and colonization over addressing pressing issues on Earth, such as poverty and climate change.5. The Future of Mars Immigration:- Speculate on the potential timeline for human settlement on Mars.- Consider the role of government agencies, private companies, and international cooperation in realizing the Marsimmigration plan.- Discuss the potential societal impacts of amulti-planetary civilization, such as cultural exchange and the spread of human civilization beyond Earth.6. Conclusion:- Summarize the main points discussed in the essay.- Offer some final thoughts on the implications of the Mars immigration plan for humanity's future.By addressing these points, you can create a comprehensive and thought-provoking essay on the topic of the Mars immigration plan. Let me know if you need further assistance with any specific section!。

新标准大学英语_综合教程3_课后答案unit 4

新标准大学英语_综合教程3_课后答案unit 4

Unit 4Reading 1Language points1 Work in corporate America (Title)Corporate America is a general term given to a large non-government-owned organization or companyin the United States, eg a bank, a marketing research company etc. It has both positive and negativeconnotations. Positively, it means that a company or an organization produces wealth and improvespeople’s living standards in a free market and competitive society by p eople working together to achievethe goals. This mainly refers to financial gains and success. Negatively, it seems to indicate the promotionof self-interest, financial gains, greed and irresponsibility in the workplace.2 It is not surprising that modern children tend to look blank and dispirited when ... (Para 1)To look blank means that modern children show no sign of understanding or emotion about the corporateworkplace, they seem unresponsive and have blank looks.Someone who is dispirited does not have the hope, enthusiasm or interest that they had earlier; they are inlow spirits or downhearted.3 The parent could take his offspring to his place of business and let him watch while he repaired abuggy or built a table. (Para 2)A buggy is a vehicle used for babies and toddlers by carers (parents, grandparents and adults in caringprofessions), to push them around. It is also called a pushchair. In the US, it is called a stroller.4 When a child asked … his father could answer in terms that a child could come to grips with, suchas “I fix steam engines” or “I make horse collars”. (Para 3)The expression come to grips with normally means to face up to a problem, situation or difficult job anddeal with it. Here, it means that someone gets to understand something that is difficult or unpleasant. It hasthe similar meaning as to come to terms with, tackle, handle, manage etc. Horse collars are made of leather and fit around animals’ necks to allow themto pull heavy things. Whenhorses are used to pull carts or carriages they wear horse collars. Here, in corporate America, this is adeliberate image of something very old-fashioned, just like steam engines.5 How can he possibly envision anyone analyzing a system or researching a market? (Para 5)The word envision is a verb which means to show a visual scene in your mind, to imagine something thatis outside your experience, which has not happened or does not exist.6 Even grown men … and it is a safe bet that the average systems analyst is as baffled about what aspace salesman does at the shop as the average space salesman is about the tools needed to analyze asystem. (Para 6)The expression it is a safe bet means that the speaker or writer is sure about something (they would bewilling to risk money to confirm it).Changing times Unit 4117A space salesman deals with the arrangements for the use of space in offices and other places: How manyrooms might be needed for what purposes, what sorts of work people do in particular offices and how theoffice furniture and equipment can best be arranged for the maximum effectiveness, how much it coststo rent or use office accommodation in different parts of a city ... But probably, a space salesman mainlydeals with people who want to rent office space.In this sentence the writer is saying he is quite sure that neither the systems analyst nor the spacesalesman knows about each other’s work and what they actually do.7 The machines that make things make them in such a fashion that they will quickly fall apart insuch a way that repairs will be prohibitively expensive. (Para 7)The expression in such a fashion means in a particular way or manner.The cost is prohibitively expensive when it prevents you from buying something, as it is beyond the limitsof what you can afford. Or, we may say the cost is prohibitive.The sentence means that the machines make things in such a way that they will break or fall into piecesso that they can’t be cheaply repaired. It is implied that the things are made to be short-lasting so that themanufacturers can sell more later.8 The handful of people remotely associated with these machines can, of course,tell their inquisitivechildren “Daddy makes junk”. (Para 8)Inquisitive children are those who like to ask lots of questions, especially things that adults do not wantto talk about.9 Most of the workforce, however, is too remote from junk production to sense any contribution tothe industry. (Para8)The sentence means most workers are distant from the process of junk production so they do not feel thattheir work has any part in it.10 Others telephone to ascertain the whereabouts of paper. (Para 12)The expression ascertain the whereabouts of something means to find out where something is.11 Back at the office, the father orders the paper retyped and reproduced in quintuplicate, and thensent to another man for comparison with paper that was reproduced in triplicate last year. (Para 16)The word quintuplicate means that something is made into five copies. To quadruplicate means to makeinto four copies; triplicate three copies; and duplicate two copies. Dealing with unfamiliar words4 Match the words in the box with their definitions.1 old, broken or useless things (junk)2 relating to large companies, or a particular large company (corporate)3 to not approve of someone or something (disapprove)4 to form a picture of someone or something in your mind (visualize)5 an agreement in which you risk an amount of money by saying what you think will happen (bet)6 to find out something (ascertain)7 the space at the left or right side of a page where words are not usually printed or written (margin)8 to discuss something with other people in order to reach a decision (confer)9 important, respected, and admired (eminent)10 to twist your face into an expression that shows you are angry (scowl)5 Complete the sentences with the correct form of the words in Activity 4.1 It’s not easy to visualize what life was like in the age of the steam engine.2 If you disapprove of these plans, you should let me know exactly what you find wrong with them.3 Thomas’ room is full of junk like broken electrical equipment and old computer parts he doesn’t need.4 My bet is that this type of job w on’t give you much satisfaction.5 We’re going to need some time to confer with our lawyers before we make a decision.6 The margins of the pages in this document have all been written on.7 We can’t accept your application, without ascertaining the authenticity of your qualifications.8 It was a corporate decision to close the bank, not the choice of any individual.9 She’s a very nice person, and a very eminent professor.10 Why is he scowling at me? What have I done?6 Replace the underlined words with the correct form of the following words. You may need to makeother changes.1 A curious child is often eager to inquire about the jobs their parents do. (inquisitive)An inquisitive child is often eager to inquire about the jobs their parents do.2 Most people think the decision they took is impossible to understand. (incomprehensible)3 Could you write down any ideas you have during the meeting on this piece of paper? (jot)4 You are very careful about noticing details if you can remember exactly what the manager was wearing.(observant)5 I’m afraid we don’t know the place where Helen is right now. (whereabouts) I’m afraid we don’t know the whereabouts of Helen.Changing times Unit 41196 Don’t be unhappy and lacking in enthusiasm. I’m sure one of the app lications will be successful.(dispirited)7 I’d like to buy an open top car, but they’re all so terribly expensive. (prohibitively)7 Answer the questions about the expressions.1 If you look blank about something, do you (a) understand, or (b) not understand it?2 If you come to grips with a problem, do you (a) start to deal with it, or (b) stop thinking about it?3 When something falls apart, is it (a) in the wrong place, or (b) broken?4 When something wears out, does it (a) not look very nice, or (b) become old and unusable?5 If you mull over a problem, do you (a) think carefully about it for a longtime, or (b) quickly solve it?6 Do people sometimes say “It beats me” because they (a) understand, or (b) don’t understand something?Active reading (2)Language points1 There’s nothing new about our obsession with the new, says Dominic Sandbrook. (Introduction)Obsession is an emotional state in which someone or something is so important that you are alwaysthinking about them, in a way that seems extreme to other people.2 We live in a world of unprecedented, dazzling change. (Para 1)The word unprecedented means never having happened or existed before, eg an unprecedented situation,an unprecedented change.3 Thanks to globalization, national frontiers are collapsing around us, while technological innovationsare fundamentally reshaping our lives in ways we can barely comprehend. (Para 1)Because of the situation of globalization –that the whole world is developing a single complex economy,communication system and culture –it seems that there are no national borders and new technologies areinfluencing our lives in basic ways which we cannot really understand.4 So run the clichés, anyway. (Para 2)A cliché refers to a phrase or idea that is boring because people use it a lot, and it is no longer original andsounds empty. The expression so run the clichés means these are the clichés you often hear.5 But it is only our obsession with novelty, ignorance of deeper historical patterns and arrogantinsistence on our own importance that leads us into this kind of talk. (Para 2)Historical patterns refer to major events in history which make patterns because they are related to eachother or similar.Changing times Unit 41256 Yet there is a good case that we do not, in fact, live in very interesting times at all. (Para 2)A case here is a set of facts or arguments that you can state for or againstsomething. A case forsomething is positive support or a good case; a case against something is a counter-argument or reasonswhy the case is not valid; a poor case is weak and does not have solid facts or reasons behind it. You canstate, make or argue a case.7 Take the example of globalization, which, according to its American champion, Thomas Friedman ...influencing “the politics, environment, geopolitics and economics of virtually every country in theworld”. (Para 3)The word champion here refers to someone who publicly supports or defends a set of beliefs or politicalaims, ie a strong supporter.Geopolitics means the study of how a country’s position, economy or population can influence itspolitics, especially in relation to other countries.8 The Roman Empire, for example, is nothing if not a multi-ethnic, multicultural, transnationalentity … (Para 4)The word transnational means affecting or involving several countries. The prefix trans- means across.9 And for all the hype about the Internet, the brutal truth is that most of us use it to do remarkablyold-fashioned things ... (Para 6)Hype refers to the use of a lot of advertisements or other publicity to influence or interest people. To hypeup means to make something sound more interesting or impressive than it is. The brutal truth refers to the truth that is extremely honest, given in a way that seems unkind.10 We are always being told that the Internet has “opened up” the world, yeta staggering 90 per centof all web traffic is local. (Para 6)The word staggering means extremely surprising. Many people would think that much or most use, ortraffic, of the World Wide Web would be global or international, but the writer says that, surprisingly, 90 percent is local.11 When Stanley Kubrick’s film 2001: A Space Odyssey … talking to sentient computers and living onthe Moon. (Para 7)Sentient computers are computers which are capable of feeling things through the physical senses.12 But the cinema-goers of 1968 would have been deeply disappointed to realizethat in fact theywould be living in Milton Keynes and watching Midsomer Murders. (Para 7) This sentence presents a contrast with the previous sentence which gave a picture that people had in 1968of possibly going into space. Instead, their future turned out to be living in a very ordinary town of manynew streets which all seem identical (like Milton Keynes) and watching detective stories about ruralvillages on TV (like Midsomer Murders, a TV series based in rural southern England).13 Even our neophilia is nothing new. (Para 8)The prefix neo- means modern or new. The suffix -phile describes someone who loves or likes something;thus an anglophile likes English things, a francophile likes French things, a sinophile likes Chinesethings. The word neophilia means the love of new things or novelties.14 If so, then we are lucky, because we don’t. (Para 10)We are lucky because we don’t live in interesting times, which means we should avoid the chaos andanxiety of interesting times.Dealing with unfamiliar words5 Match the words in the box with their definitions.1 an emotional state in which someone or something is so important to you that you are always thinkingabout them (obsession)2 the study of the way that goods and services are produced and sold and the way money is managed(economics)3 to proudly tell other people about what you have done or can do, or about something you own (boast)4 a car (automobile)5 an area or town near a large city but away from its centre, where there are many houses, especially formiddle-class people (suburb)6 a new idea, method, piece of equipment etc (innovation)7 something that you suggest is true, although you do not say it directly (implication)8 the limits of your experience (horizons)6 Complete the sentences with the correct form of the words in Activity 5.1 The middle-class dream used to be to live in a peaceful suburb and own a new automobile.2 Today we have an obsession with healthy lifestyles and the latest technological innovations.3 He has good reason to boast about the progress he has made in his career.4 The implication is obvious: We are beginning to understand the impact of globalization.5 Most of us need a professor of economics to explain how our horizons have been pushed back by theopening up of new world markets.7 Replace the underlined words with the correct form of the words in the box. You may need to makeother changes.Teaching tipsSs need to realize that some adjectives, eg unprecedented and plausible, that you are going to insertshould go before the nouns.1 The water has risen to levels which we have never seen before. (unprecedented) The water has risen to unprecedented levels.2 Can you give me any reason which I can believe to explain what has happened? (plausible)Can you give me any plausible reason to explain what has happened?3 I think that the decision was based on the fact that he doesn’t know anything. (ignorance)I think that the decision was based on his ignorance.4 The news you’ve just given me is absolutely incredible. (staggering)5 I hope this crisis will be followed by a period in which there is no change. (stability)6 Are computers the best thing that ever happened to us, or a piece of bad luck caused by someone whowants to hurt us? (curse)8 Answer the questions about the words and expressions.Teaching tipsTo go over the answers, T gives ten Ss a number, each between one and ten. T calls “One”, then S1 readsQuestion 1 to the class. He / She should choose the correct answer and make it a complete sentence. Tcalls “Two” and S2 reads Question 2 etc. T doesn’t need to say anything unless a student gives a wronganswer. In that case, T should ask other Ss to help them.Changing times Unit 41291 If a change is dazzling, is it (a) very impressive, or (b) not impressive at all?2 If you use clichés in your writing, does your writing (a) contain some boring words or ideas thatpeople have used a lot, or (b) contain lots of fresh thoughts?3 If someone is arrogant, do they think that they (a) never, or (b) always know better than everyone else?4 Is an entity something that (a) has, or (b) doesn’t have internal unity?5 If you behave in a brutal way, are you (a) very gentle, or (b) very violent?6 Do people who always grumble never seem (a) happy, or (b) unhappy about anything?7 If you brag about something, do you talk (a) in a proud way that annoys people, or (b) patientlybecause it is hard to understand?8 Is the advent of something another way of talking about (a) the appearance, or (b) the disappearanceof something?9 If you refer to the magnitude of a problem, do you think that it might be (a) big, or (b) small?10 If something happens in the wake of something else, does it (a) come before it, or (b) follow it?Language in usein such a way / fashion that …1 Rewrite the sentences using in such a way / fashion that …1 Because of the way this office is built, it is difficult to avoid wasting energy on heating.This office is built in such a way that it is difficult to avoid wasting energy on heating.2 Due to the way in which the instructions were written, I couldn’t understand how to assemble theproduct.The instructions were written in such a fashion that I couldn’t understand how to assemble the product.3 Because of the way in which they welcomed me, I immediately felt at home in the new office.They welcomed me in such a way that I immediately felt at home in the new office.4 Due to the way in which problems are dealt with, it is unlikely that the top managers ever get to knowabout them.The problems are dealt with in such a fashion that it is unlikely that the top managers ever get to knowabout them.5 Because of the way in which I was taught English, I will probably never forget it.I was taught English in such a way that I will probably never forget it.word formation: in-, un-, dis-2 Look at the sentences from the passage Work in corporate America and answer the question.What do the prefixes in-, un- and dis- have in common?They are all negative prefixes meaning not.3 Replace the underlined words with the word in brackets and the appropriate prefix. You may need tomake other changes.1 I’m afraid Matthew has turned out to be no good at his job. (competent) I’m afraid Matthew has turned out to be incompetent at his job.2 I don’t have the same opinion as you. I think he’s doing fine. (agree)I disagree with you. I think he’s doing fine.3 If you click here, you can cancel the last change you made to the document. (do)If you click here, you can undo the last change you made to the document.4 How many people are without a job in this town? (employed)How many people are unemployed in this town?5 I didn’t know that you had introduced all these new rules. (aware)I was unaware that you had introduced all these new rules.6 Obviously, it wasn’t o ur intention not to obey the orders. (obey) Obviously, it wasn’t our intention to disobey the orders.Unit 4 Changing times1347 I’ve had a look at the report and I think it is not complete. (complete) I’ve had a look at the report and I think it is incomplete.8 I don’t know my colleagues very well, but I don’t have any bad feelings towards them. (like)I don’t know my colleagues very well, but I don’t dislike them.9 I’m afraid that software is not compatible with our system. (compatible) I’m afraid that software is incompatible with our system.for all + noun phrase4 Rewrite the sentences using for all + noun phrase.1 Although we are concerned about the environment, there is little that we can do to protect it.For all our concern about the environment, there is little that we can do to protect it.2 He has a lot of knowledge about the world of finance, but he doesn’t seem to know how to invest moneywisely.For all his knowledge about the world of finance, he doesn’t seem to know how to invest money wisely.3 Although she said a lot of kind words, I don’t think she really appreciated just how much time we hadspent on this project.For all her kind words, I don’t think she really appreciated just how much time we had spent on this project.4 He has hundreds of bright ideas about developing new products, but he never seems able to put themdown on paper.For all his bright ideas about developing new products, he never seems able to put them down on paper.5 I do have a lot of doubts about this new software, but I recognize that it is quite innovative.For all my doubts about this new software, I recognize that it is quite innovative.as + adj. …as5 Rewrite the sentences using as + adj. …as.1 I am confused about how to apply for the job. Similarly, they are confused about who can apply.I am as confused about how to apply for the job as they are about who can apply.2 My wife and I were worried about staying longer than we were supposed to. Similarly, our hosts wereworried that we might not have enjoyed the meal.My wife and I were as worried about staying longer as our hosts were that we might not have enjoyedthe meal.3 Our generation knows little about cassette recorders and record players. Similarly our parents knowlittle about iPods and MP3 players.Our generation knows as little about cassette recorders and record players as our parents know aboutiPods and MP3 players.4 We are curious about what he does for a living. Similarly, he is curious about what our company does.We are as curious about what he does for a living as he is about what our company does.Changing times Unit 41355 I have very little idea about how to shoe a horse. Similarly, he doesn’t have much idea about how torepair a motorbike.I have as little idea about how to shoe a horse as he has about how to repaira motorbike.collocations6 Read the explanations of the words. Answer the questions.1 margin This word usually means the space at the side of a page where you don’t write anything.(a) Do you have a habit of jotting notes in the margin when reading books? Yes, I do. But other people just take notes on a separate piece of paper because they don’t want tospoil the book.(b) If you win an election by a narrow margin, how big is the victory?The victory is not big; it is just a narrow or close victory.(c) What sort of problems are faced by people who live on the margins of society? They may face social and economic problems because they have fewer opportunities and may findit difficult to join the mainstream society.(d) If the margin of error in a calculation is very small, what are the chances that the calculation iswrong?The chances are small and any errors are likely to be very small.2 ignorance This word usually means lack of knowledge or facts about something.(a) If an answer that you give betrays your ignorance, how do you feel?You feel embarrassed because your answer has shown people your ignorance and most people donot like to show this in public.(b) Do you think that ignorance of the law can ever be an excuse for breaking it?It’s a human excuse because it means that you didn’t know the law on that point, but it is not a legalexcuse.(c) Do you know of any decisions that have been taken but which were based on ignorance?Yes. In the early days of the stock market in China, some people bought sharesin the belief that allshares would make money quickly, but later they lost money when the shares lost value. They boughtthe shares in ignorance about how the market works and they had little idea of the risks.3 sheer This word is usually used for emphasizing the amount or degree of something.(a) If somebody tells you that your company is sheer delight, how would you feel?I would feel complimented because that’s a nice thing to say to anyone. (b) If you were overcome by sheer weight of numbers, was it the quality or quantity of the oppositionthat defeated you?It would have been the quantity of the opposition, eg the large number of opponents.(c) Do you think it is easy to climb a sheer cliff face?Not at all, because that kind of cliff is nearly vertical and it is very difficult to climb without training.Unit 4 Changing times1367 Translate the paragraphs into Chinese.1 Even grown men who do market research have trouble visualizing what a public relations man doeswith his day, and it is a safe bet that the average systems analyst is as baffled about what a spacesalesman does at the shop as the average space salesman is about the tools needed to analyze a system.即使是那些从事市场研究工作的成年人也难很想象公关部的人每天都在做些什么。

政府该不该花钱太空探索英语作文

政府该不该花钱太空探索英语作文

政府该不该花钱太空探索英语作文Title: Should Governments Invest in Space Exploration?Space exploration has always been a subject of great fascination and significant debate. Since the dawn of the space age in the mid-20th century, when the Soviet Union launched Sputnik 1 and later when NASA landed Apollo 11 on the moon, the question of whether governments should invest heavily in space exploration has been contentious. This essay argues that government investment in space exploration is not only justified but also essential for scientific advancement, national security, economic growth, and addressing global challenges.First and foremost, space exploration significantly contributes to scientific knowledge. The quest to understand our universe drives innovation and the development of new technologies. For instance, the Hubble Space Telescope hasprovided unparalleled insights into the cosmos, leading to groundbreaking discoveries about the nature of black holes, dark matter, and the expansion of the universe. These scientific advancements have profound implications for our understanding of fundamental physics and the origins of life. Government funding is crucial in this regard, as private companies may lack the resources or the willingness to invest in long-term, high-risk scientific research with no immediate financial return.Moreover, space exploration has historically led to technological innovations that have practical applications on Earth. The technologies developed for space missions often find their way into everyday life, a phenomenon known as "spin-off" technologies. For example, advancements insatellite technology have revolutionized global communications, weather forecasting, and navigation systems. The development of new materials and medical technologies, such as improvements in digital imaging and remote healthmonitoring, can also trace their origins to space research. Thus, government investment in space exploration stimulates technological progress that benefits society as a whole.National security is another compelling reason for governments to invest in space exploration. In an era where space has become a potential theater for military operations, maintaining a presence in space is crucial for national defense. Satellites play a vital role in intelligence gathering, communication, and navigation for military operations. The capability to launch and maintain satellites, as well as to protect them from potential adversaries, is integral to national security. Government-funded space programs ensure that a nation remains competitive and secure in the space domain, deterring potential threats andfostering international cooperation through space treaties and agreements.Economically, space exploration has the potential to create new markets and industries, driving economic growth. The commercialization of space activities, such as satellite launches, space tourism, and the potential mining of extraterrestrial resources, represents a burgeoning sector with substantial economic prospects. Government investment can help catalyze these industries, creating jobs and stimulating technological entrepreneurship. By supporting the space sector, governments can foster a high-tech economy, positioning their nations as leaders in an emerging global market.In addition to these tangible benefits, space exploration can play a crucial role in addressing global challenges such as climate change and resource scarcity. Satellites provide critical data for monitoring environmental changes, managing natural disasters, and improving agricultural practices. The unique vantage point of space allows for comprehensive observation and analysis of Earth's systems, contributing tomore effective environmental management and policy-making. Furthermore, the research into life support systems for long-duration space missions has the potential to yield solutions for sustainable living on Earth, particularly in areasrelated to water purification, waste recycling, and renewable energy.Another aspect worth considering is the inspirational and unifying power of space exploration. Human space endeavors, such as the Apollo moon landings and the Mars rovers, have captured the imagination of people worldwide, inspiring generations of scientists, engineers, and ordinary citizens. These missions symbolize human curiosity, ingenuity, and the desire to push the boundaries of what is possible. Government support for space exploration sends a powerful message about the importance of science and innovation, encouraging educational pursuits and fostering a culture of exploration and discovery.Critics of government spending on space exploration often argue that the funds could be better allocated to address pressing social issues such as poverty, healthcare, and education. While it is undeniable that these issues are critical and require substantial investment, it is a false dichotomy to suggest that funding space exploration precludes addressing terrestrial problems. In reality, the benefits derived from space exploration can and do contribute to solutions for these very issues. For instance, satellite technology enhances disaster response efforts, and medical advancements from space research improve healthcare outcomes.A balanced approach that includes investment in space exploration alongside other critical areas is both feasible and beneficial.Furthermore, international cooperation in space exploration can foster peaceful relations and collaboration between nations. Projects like the International Space Station (ISS) exemplify how countries with diverse politicaland cultural backgrounds can work together towards common goals. Such collaborations not only advance scientific research but also build diplomatic bridges and mutual understanding. Government investment in multinational space initiatives promotes global peace and stability, leveraging the unifying potential of shared scientific and exploratory endeavors.In conclusion, government investment in space exploration is a vital and multifaceted endeavor that yields significant scientific, technological, economic, and societal benefits. It drives scientific discovery, fosters technological innovation, enhances national security, stimulates economic growth, addresses global challenges, and inspires humanity. While it is essential to continue addressing pressing issues on Earth, neglecting space exploration would mean missing out on opportunities that can profoundly impact our future. Governments should continue to invest in space exploration, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of this finalfrontier, ready to harness its potential for the betterment of all humankind.。

中国太空研究成就英语作文

中国太空研究成就英语作文

中国太空研究成就英语作文China's Space Exploration Achievements: A Testament to Technological Prowess and National AmbitionChina's space program has experienced remarkable growth and success in recent decades, solidifying the country's position as a global leader in space exploration. From the launch of its first satellite to the recent achievements of its lunar and Mars missions, China has consistently demonstrated its technological capabilities and scientific ambition, captivating the world with its space-related accomplishments.One of the most significant milestones in China's space exploration journey was the launch of its first satellite, Dong Fang Hong I, in 1970. This historic event marked the beginning of China's foray into the realm of space technology, showcasing the country's determination to establish itself as a major player in the global space race. The successful launch of this satellite not only instilled a sense of national pride but also paved the way for the development of more advanced space programs.In the following years, China continued to make impressive strides in its space exploration efforts. The launch of the Shenzhou spacecraft series, which began in 1999, represented a crucial step towards manned space missions. The Shenzhou program culminated in the successful crewed space flights of Shenzhou 5 in 2003, which saw China become the third country in the world, after the United States and Russia, to independently send a human into space.The establishment of the Tiangong space station program in 2011 further solidified China's ambitions in the realm of space exploration. The Tiangong program, which consists of a series of modular space stations, has enabled China to conduct long-duration crewed missions and engage in various scientific experiments in the microgravity environment of space. The successful launch and operation of the Tiangong-1 and Tiangong-2 space stations have demonstrated China's ability to maintain a sustained human presence in space, a significant achievement that has contributed to the country's growing scientific and technological capabilities.One of the most recent and highly publicized accomplishments of China's space program is the successful landing of the Tianwen-1 mission on Mars in 2021. This mission, which included the deployment of a rover and a lander, marked China's first successful interplanetary exploration, placing the country among the elitegroup of nations that have successfully landed a spacecraft on the surface of the Red Planet. The Tianwen-1 mission has not only provided valuable scientific data about the Martian environment but has also showcased China's advancements in deep space exploration and robotic technology.Furthermore, China's lunar exploration program has also achieved remarkable success. The Chang'e series of lunar probes, named after the mythical Chinese moon goddess, have made significant contributions to our understanding of the Moon. The Chang'e-4 mission, which landed a spacecraft on the far side of the Moon in 2019, was a groundbreaking achievement, as it marked the first time a spacecraft had successfully navigated and landed on the lunar surface that is not visible from Earth. This mission has provided unprecedented insights into the geology and environment of the far side of the Moon, expanding our knowledge of our celestial neighbor.In addition to these significant accomplishments, China's space program has also made strides in other areas, such as the development of advanced satellite technology, the establishment of a global navigation system (BeiDou), and the exploration of the Sun and near-Earth objects. These achievements have not only contributed to China's scientific and technological prowess but have also positioned the country as a key player in the global spacelandscape.One of the driving forces behind China's space exploration successes is the country's unwavering commitment to invest in and support its space program. The Chinese government has consistently allocated significant resources, both financial and human, to the development of its space capabilities, recognizing the strategic and scientific importance of space exploration. This sustained investment has enabled China to attract and nurture a talented pool of scientists, engineers, and technicians, who have been instrumental in the design, development, and execution of the country's space missions.Moreover, China's space program has also been driven by a strong sense of national pride and ambition. The successful launch of the Dong Fang Hong I satellite in 1970 was a pivotal moment in China's history, as it demonstrated the country's ability to overcome technological challenges and join the ranks of space-faring nations. This national pride has continued to fuel China's space exploration efforts, with each successive achievement serving as a source of inspiration and motivation for the Chinese people.As China's space program continues to evolve and expand, it is clear that the country is poised to play an increasingly prominent role in the global space landscape. The successful landing of the Tianwen-1 rover on Mars, the ongoing operation of the Tiangong space station,and the planned future missions to the Moon and beyond all point to China's growing confidence and expertise in space exploration.In conclusion, China's space exploration achievements are a testament to the country's technological prowess, scientific ambition, and national pride. From the launch of its first satellite to the recent successes on Mars and the Moon, China has consistently demonstrated its ability to push the boundaries of space exploration, captivating the world with its remarkable accomplishments. As China continues to invest in and develop its space program, it is clear that the country will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of space exploration, contributing to the advancement of human knowledge and the exploration of the final frontier.。