Types of Space Missions

Space missions, as it refers to the journeying into the cosmos, varies greatly in their motives, scale, and the technology implemented. Typically, these missions are commissioned for reasons such as scientific exploration, national security, or technological development. The types of missions will be defined and explored below to provide a better understanding of why we venture into the unknown.

Unmanned Missions

Unmanned Space Missions, as the name suggests, involve no personnel aboard the spacecraft. This can include satellite launches, robotic exploration, and telescopic observation.

Satellites

A satellite is an object placed into orbit by human endeavor. These are broken down into two categories: Artificial and Natural satellites. The Moon, for example, is a natural satellite of Earth.

Robotic Exploration

Robotic Exploration involves sending robots to space to collect data on behalf of humans. This method was chosen due to the significantly lower risk it posed as compared to sending humans. Examples of this type of mission include rovers such as Mars Rover.

Telescopic Observation

Telescopic Observations are space missions that involve launching telescopes into space. These telescopes, such as the Hubble Space Telescope, capture images and data much clearer than those on Earth due to the absence of atmospheric distortion.

Manned Missions

Manned Space Missions involve a crew of astronauts venturing out to the cosmos. These missions are primarily concerned with research completion, space station operation, and human space travel.

Research Completion

Manned research missions are primarily aimed at studying the effects of living in space. This includes both physical and psychological effects on astronauts. Data obtained from such missions contributes tremendously towards preparing for long-term space habitation.

Space Station Operation

Space Station Operation involves maintaining the international space station, conduct research, and carry out experiments.

Human Space Travel

Human Space Travel techniques perfected through constant short trips around the earth. The main goal is to explore the possibility of colonizing space in the future.

Conclusion

Venturing into the unknown has been the defining characteristic of human progress since the dawn of civilization. It is undeniable that future developments in space exploration holds limitless potential. Whether it is for immediate technological development or long-term survival, understanding the various types of space missions helps us understand our reasons for reaching out into the cosmos.

One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are unmanned space missions?

Unmanned space missions are those that do not involve any human personnel aboard. This may include satellite launches, robotic exploration, and telescopic observation.

What do manned space missions involve?

Manned space missions involve sending a crew of astronauts into space. These missions could be for the purpose of research completion, space station operations, or human space travel.

Why are space missions important?

Space missions are central to scientific exploration and discovery, national security, and technological development. They allow for exploration and understanding of the cosmos and can contribute to technological advancements that benefit life on earth.

Article updated at Tuesday, October 8, 2024