Lesson
Impact of Satellite Pollution on Climate
Read this news story in English at three levels, easy, standard, and advanced (B1–C1) — with vocabulary and a comprehension quiz.
Scientists are studying how satellite launches affect Earth's climate. Pollution from rockets and discarded satellites is contributing to atmospheric changes.
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Standard — Natural English
58 words · ~1 min readEasy version (A2–B1)
Many new satellites are being launched into space. These rockets create pollution that goes into the air. When satellites are no longer used, they burn up in the atmosphere. This pollution can block sunlight and cool the Earth.Standard version (B1–B2)
Recent satellite launches are having a significant impact on Earth's atmosphere. Rockets that send satellites into space release pollutants into various layers of the atmosphere. Additionally, when satellites reach the end of their life, they must be burned in the atmosphere, releasing black carbon particles. These particles can block sunlight and contribute to cooling effects on the climate.Advanced version (C1–C2)
The proliferation of satellite constellations, driven by billionaire space entrepreneurs, is leading to increased pollution in Earth's atmosphere. As rockets launch these satellites, they emit pollutants that ascend through different atmospheric layers. Furthermore, when satellites are decommissioned, they are typically incinerated in the upper atmosphere, releasing black carbon particles. These particles, suspended in the atmosphere, have the potential to block incoming solar radiation, thereby inducing a cooling effect on the planet's climate. Professor Eloise Marais from University College London highlights these concerns in her recent research.Lesson audio
Standard level
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Test your understanding
Test your understanding
01What do rockets release into the atmosphere?
02What happens to satellites at the end of their life?
03What is one effect of black carbon particles?
04Who is conducting research on satellite pollution?
Discussion
Discussion
What are the potential long-term effects of satellite pollution on our climate?
Vocabulary
Vocabulary
constellation word
a group of satellites in orbit
“The new satellite constellation provides internet services.”
pollutants word
substances that make the air, water, or soil dirty
“Rockets release pollutants into the atmosphere.”
black carbon word
soot particles that can block sunlight
“Black carbon particles are released during rocket launches.”
incinerated word
burned completely
“Old satellites are incinerated in the atmosphere.”
atmosphere word
the layer of gases surrounding the Earth
“Pollution affects the Earth's atmosphere.”