Space Technology Glossary

noun a small soluble case of gelatin containing a dose of medicine

verb encapsulate in a capsule

adjective involving or arranged in a compact form

• The doctor prescribed a daily dose of the antibiotic in capsule form.
• I always have trouble swallowing those big capsules.
• I popped a few energy capsules before hitting the gym.
• The capsule of time seemed to slow down as they shared a special moment.

noun a vast expanse that begins where the earth's atmosphere ends

adjective relating to or existing in the outer regions of the atmosphere or beyond

• Scientists study the vast expanse of outer space to better understand the universe.
• Have you ever wondered what it would be like to travel through outer space?
• Outer space is like the ultimate road trip destination, dude.
• Her mind often drifts off into outer space during boring meetings.

noun a system or device used to propel a rocket or spacecraft through the atmosphere or outer space

• Rocket propulsion is the process of creating thrust to propel a rocket forward.
• The rocket propulsion system is what makes the rocket go zoom!
• The rocket's propulsion is like its engine, it's what makes it fly.
• Her determination was like rocket propulsion, propelling her towards her goals at lightning speed.

noun A material used to absorb energy from a moving object, especially in spacecraft during reentry into the atmosphere.

• The spacecraft's heat shield is designed to act as an ablator, protecting it from the intense heat of reentry.
• The ablator on the rocket helps prevent it from getting too hot during launch.
• Make sure the ablator is in good condition before takeoff, or we could be in trouble.
• In a stressful situation, she acted as an emotional ablator, shielding her friends from the negativity around them.