Tools for Space Exploration

What It Is: Uses lenses and light to make objects far away appear closer and larger

Purpose: Learn more about the bodies in space (galaxies, planets, moons, stars, black holes, comets, asteroids, meteors)

What Is It: Object that orbits around a body in space. Moons are natural satellites.

Purpose: Artificial - learn more about planets including Earth (weather, oceans, land) and their moons

What Is It: Rocket-launched vehicles that make trips around Earth (some has gone as far as the moon). Some manned, some unmanned

Purpose: Research the effects of space on living and nonliving things.

What Is It: A planetary surface exploration device designed to move across the solid surface of a planet. If not manned, they are remote controlled.

Purpose: Collect samples of planetary materials like soil, rocks and liquids.

What Is It: Unmanned exploratory spacecraft designed to transmit information about it's surroundings.

Purpose: Gather scientific information about other planets, stars, and other celestial bodies

What Is It: Modular space station that maintains a low orbit around Earth (every 90 minutes)

Purpose: Serves as a home for astronauts and a unique science laboratory