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Astronaut
Travels to space for scientific research, maintenance of space stations, and exploration.
Did you know?
Astronauts grow about 2.5 cm taller in space because in orbit they are in free fall (microgravity), so nothing presses their spines down; they shrink back on Earth.
How subjects help
- Physics: Understand how floating in orbit works so you can move and work safely outside the station.
- Mathematics: Check the timing and angles as a spacecraft lines up to dock with the space station.
- Biology: Run experiments on how plants, cells and your own body change in microgravity.
- Engineering: Repair pumps, solar panels and air systems on the station when something breaks.
A famous name
Kalpana Chawla: NASA astronaut who became the first woman of Indian heritage to fly into space, in 1997.
Try it yourself: Design a base on Mars
- List what people need to stay alive: air, water, food, warmth, and protection from radiation.
- Mars has thin air you can't breathe, freezing nights and dust storms. Decide how your base solves each problem.
- Draw your base and label where each need is met.
- What happens if one part breaks? Add a backup.
Space engineers design around every need, then plan backups, because help is months away.
Also try: Design a bus route for your town.
Known for it in
USA, Russia, China, Japan, EU (ESA)