This glossary can help you prepare for the IELTS writing tasks related to Research on Space.
acquire
verb
Buy or obtain (an asset or object) for oneself.
Example: In addition to these practical benefits, supporters of the space program point to the scientific knowledge that has been acquired about the sun, the moon, the planets and even our own earth as a result of space research.
astronaut
noun
A person who is trained to travel in a spacecraft.
Example: These people point out the fact that it cost billions of dollars to send astronauts to the moon, but all they brought back were some worthless rocks.
costly
adjective
Costing a lot; expensive.
Example: This research has been very costly, of course. Has this money been well-spent or wasted?
exploration
noun
The action of exploring an unfamiliar area.
Example: For over fifty years, a number of nations have been involved in the exploration of outer space.
incredible
adjective
Impossible to believe.
Example: Some people believe that all or most space research should be eliminated because of its incredible expense, not only in terms of money, but also in terms of scientific and human resources.
individual
adjective
Single; separate.
Example: Moreover, just as individual people need challenges to make their lives more interesting, I believe the human race itself needs a challenge.
outer
adjective
Outside; external.
Example: These people say that the money and effort now being wasted in outer space could be spent for homeless people, improving the education system, saving the environment, and finding cures for diseases.
satellite
noun
An artificial body placed in orbit round the earth or moon or another planet in order to collect information or for communication.
Example: They say that weather and communication satellites, which are also products of space programs, have benefited people all over the globe.
space
noun
A continuous area or expanse which is free, available, or unoccupied.
Example: However, other people believe that space research has provided many benefits to mankind.
worthless
adjective
Having no real value or use.
Example: These people point out the fact that it cost billions of dollars to send astronauts to the moon, but all they brought back were some worthless rocks.