tpo 50

Both the article and the lecture are discussing the possibility of a trip to Mars. Regarding the text, the author puts forth three reasons why it is not plausible in near future. But the professor is quick to point out that there are flaws in the author's claim and addresses the trouble with each point made in the passage.

First, the author claims that the capacity of spaceships is not sufficient for the amount of water, food, and oxygen needed for a trip to Mars, as it takes at least two years. However, the professor mentions that the astronauts could use hydroponic plants whose roots are in water instead of soil, and they recycle water and release oxygen. This way, they will have their food, water, and oxygen supplied, refuting the author's claim.

Second, the writer states that staying in a zero-gravity mood inflicts serious damage on the astronauts' bodies. The professor, on the other hand, believes this problem could be prevented by exercising regularly or taking vitamins. Thus, condemns the author's point, again.

Finally, the author tries to prove that astronauts would be prone to solar radiation and there is no way to prevent this. Not surprisingly, the professor casts doubt on this claim by stating that although the astronauts will be exposed to some radiation, it would not be dangerous, since the Sun's radiation are only occasionally dangerous. Additionally, there could be some special device added to the space vehicle that monitors these radiations, and a small shield, which does not add too much weight to the spaceship, could be used in times of high radiation.