Ch 17: Space Exploration
About This Chapter
Space Exploration - Chapter Summary
In this chapter on space exploration, you'll be introduced to the different types of telescopes along with important manned and unmanned space exploration programs and the reasons that these programs were initiated. This chapter discusses important figures like Tycho Brahe, Copernicus and Kepler. You'll also get details on Aristotle's central concepts and his influence. When you complete this chapter you should feel confident to:
- Discuss Alexandrian Hellenistic philosophers
- Compare the views of the universe according to Brahe and Copernicus
- Detail Galileo's quarrel with the Church
- Explain Aristotelian logic
- Define H-R diagram
- List advantages and disadvantages of types of space missions
- Demonstrate knowledge of the space shuttle missions and disasters
Space exploration lessons are led by professional instructors who provide engaging and short videos on the subject matter. Self-assessment quizzes are included with each of the video lessons and give you a chance to check your knowledge of the topic. You'll also find other useful tools like video tags that take you back to major points in the lessons and an option to submit questions to our subject-matter experts.

1. Euclid, Archimedes & Ptolemy: Alexandrian Hellenistic Philosophers
This lecture recounts the achievements of the many great minds that called Alexandria home. We will look at Euclid, Ptolemy, Archimedes, Aristarchus, Herophilos, Erasistratus and Eratosthenes.

2. Tycho Brahe and Copernicus Take On the Known Universe
Astronomy according to Ptolemy was the popular theory until Copernicus turned it on its head. This lesson explores the theories of Copernicus and Brahe and how the two changed astronomical study.

3. Galileo, the Telescope & the Church
This lesson explores the contributions of Galileo to modern science. It examines his early steps toward a scientific method, his work on falling bodies and, of course, his astronomical discoveries. Finally, the Church's reaction to these discoveries is explored.

4. Aristotelian Logic: Aristotle's Central Concepts and Influence
This lesson will explore the life of the famous philosopher Aristotle. It will highlight his life in Northern Greece and Athens, as well as his interactions with Alexander the Great. It will also explain the main tenants of Aristotelian logic.

5. Types of Telescopes: Radio, Reflecting & Refracting Telescopes
Learn about the different types of telescopes that astronomers use: X-ray, radio, gamma ray, reflecting and refracting. Learn what the differences are between them and what different things they show us about the universe.

6. H-R Diagram: Definition & Purpose
The Hertzsprung-Russell provides important information about stars such as color, temperature and luminosity. Check out which stars are blue, hot and red, and which ones are so cool they're in a class by themselves.

7. Space Mission Types: Advantages & Disadvantages
This lesson will go over four different types of space missions scientists have conducted, including flyby, orbiter, rover, and human space explorations.

8. Space Shuttle Missions & Disasters
The space shuttle program included five space shuttles, 135 missions and two serious disasters. It lasted over 30 years. Learn more here and take a short quiz at the end.
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Other Chapters
Other chapters within the FTCE Earth & Space Science 6-12 (008): Test Practice & Study Guide course
- Scientific Research & Analysis for Earth and Space Science
- Scientific Models & Tools for Earth and Space Science
- Earth Science Research & Society
- Science Laboratory Safety
- Understanding Earth's Spheres & Internal Structure
- Rocks & Minerals
- The Lithosphere
- Processes of Earth's Surface
- Geological Time
- Overview of Energy Resources
- Effects of Humans on the Environment
- Ocean & Coastal Processes
- The Atmosphere
- Weather and Storms
- Climate Phenomena
- Astronomical Objects & Processes
- FTCE Earth & Space Science 6-12 Flashcards