Tala Yasinpoor TPO 50 Writing Practice mode Back Continue Integrated Writing 00 05 Time Scientists are considering the possibility of sending humans to Mars in the coming decades Although there have been successful manned missions to the Moon in the 1960s

The article and the lecture are both about the possibility of sending humans to Mars in the future. While the writer points out some problems the Mars mission will have to face, the speaker seems to be certain that there are solutions to those problems.

First, in the reading, the author mentions the difficulty of bringing sufficient essentials to Mars since it takes at least two years to finish the trip. The lecturer claims this problem of food, water and oxygen supplies can be solved by using a technique called hydroponic. This means astronauts will be able to cultivate their own food crops in space. Moreover, not only can the water for watering the plants can be recycled to drinking water, but the plants themselves can convert the carbon-dioxide into fresh air.

Second, while the article shows concern about the health risks caused by zero-gravity environment of Mars, the speaker confidently states that the astronauts have learned how to cope with this problem. Specifically, they would regularly do exercises and take minerals such as calcium on a daily basis in order to reduce the effects of low gravity on muscle mass and bone density. As a result, astronauts have been able to go on several trips in the space with few serious medical problems.

Third, despite admitting that Mars travelers will be exposed to some level of space radiation, the lecturer also points out that they won't have to face this dangerous radiation all the time. In fact, solar radiation will only be active on Mars for certain times. To deal with this, some small special shields can be installed into the spaceship and protect the astronauts from space radiation when it comes. Therefore, the issues with radiation won't be of any concern.