College

Unit Activity: Earth and Space

Task 2: A Voyage to Proxima Centauri

Proxima Centauri is the second closest star to our solar system, which makes scientists curious to know more about it. In this task, you will research and write a 500- to 750-word paper that answers the following questions:

1. When was Proxima Centauri discovered?
2. How was Proxima Centauri discovered?
3. How have scientists researched Proxima Centauri?
4. What technologies have they used? What types of data do these technologies collect?
5. Have spacecraft ever reached this star?
6. What are the limitations of sending spacecraft to Proxima Centauri?
7. What accommodations would humans need to travel to Proxima Centauri?

Write down two more questions you have about Proxima Centauri that you plan to answer in your paper.

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**Part A: Research and Questions**

The goal of your paper is to describe the history of the discovery and research of Proxima Centauri and to explore the possibilities of traveling to this star.

**Part B: Sources**

When writing a science paper, you need several different sources of information. These sources can be books, websites, etc. Use the most credible sources, such as those ending in .edu, .gov, or reliable .org and .com sites. Evaluate each source by asking:

- Who authored the article?
- Is the author a scientific expert in stars and galaxies?
- What is the purpose of the article?
- Does the article state facts that can be proven by evidence, or is it made up of opinions?
- When was the article written?
- Do other credible sources support the statements in this article?
- Which scientific studies support the information in the article?

Find two to three credible websites for your paper. Write them down, along with one to two sentences explaining how each source will help you. Use MLA citation methods to show how you will cite your sources.

**Part C: Data Collection**

As you conduct your research, take notes from the identified sources. In the space provided here, describe one piece of data you found about Proxima Centauri and explain the technology humans used to collect this data.

**Part D: Outline**

Once you have gathered your research and answered all your questions, outline and organize your paper. A five-paragraph essay structure is recommended. Include a works cited page at the end.

Write an outline for your paper in the space provided. Remember, this is just an outline.

**Part E: Writing the Paper**

Once you complete your outline, write a 500- to 750-word paper using word processing software. Add a works cited page at the end to give credit to your sources. Submit your completed paper along with this activity to your teacher for evaluation.

Answer :

Final answer:

Proxima Centauri, a red dwarf star, was discovered in 1915 by the Scottish astronomer Robert Innes. Scientists have researched Proxima Centauri using telescopes and space-based observatories, collecting data in different wavelengths of light. However, the vast distances and limitations of current propulsion systems make it currently impossible for humans to travel to Proxima Centauri.

Explanation:

Discovery of Proxima Centauri

Proxima Centauri, a red dwarf star, was discovered in 1915 by the Scottish astronomer Robert Innes. It is located in the constellation of Centaurus and is approximately 4.24 light-years away from Earth. The discovery of Proxima Centauri was made through careful observations and measurements of its position and motion in the night sky.

Researching Proxima Centauri

Scientists have conducted extensive research on Proxima Centauri using various technologies. Telescopes, both ground-based and space-based, have been instrumental in studying the star. These telescopes collect data in different wavelengths of light, such as visible, infrared, and X-ray, providing valuable insights into the star's properties.

Possibilities of Traveling to Proxima Centauri

While Proxima Centauri is relatively close to our solar system, the vast distances involved pose significant challenges for human space travel. The fastest spacecraft ever launched, NASA's New Horizons, would take over 6,000 years to reach Proxima Centauri. Current propulsion systems are not capable of achieving the speeds required for interstellar travel.

Additionally, humans would require advanced life support systems and protection from cosmic radiation during such a long journey. Overcoming these challenges and developing the necessary technologies for interstellar travel remains a topic of scientific exploration and speculation.

Learn more about research and write a paper about the discovery, research, and possibilities of traveling to proxima centauri. here:

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