GT Writing Task 2 / Essay Sample # 346
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some people feel that the cost of space exploration is far too high for the benefits it brings while others argue that space programmes should continue no matter what the cost.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer 1:
The topic of space exploration has long been a subject of debate, with some arguing that the costs involved outweigh the benefits, while others believe that space programmes should persist regardless of the expenses. This essay will explore both perspectives, analyzing the advantages and disadvantages of space exploration. Personally, I am in favour of continuing space exploration and this essay will explain why.
One of the main arguments against space exploration is the exorbitant cost involved. Critics contend that the significant financial resources required for space programmes could be better allocated to addressing pressing issues on Earth, such as poverty alleviation, healthcare, or environmental conservation. They argue that spending billions of dollars on space missions seems unjustifiable when there are urgent matters that demand attention and funding.
On the other hand, proponents of space exploration assert that the benefits derived from these programmes justify the high costs. Firstly, space exploration has led to significant technological advancements that have had far-reaching applications in various industries. Innovations developed for space missions have contributed to advancements in satellite communications, weather forecasting, medical imaging, and even everyday products such as lightweight materials and energy-efficient technologies. Secondly, space exploration has broadened our understanding of the universe, expanding our knowledge of celestial bodies, planetary systems, and the origins of life.
In my opinion, the cost involved in space exploration and outer space research is justifiable because it has the potential to bring technological and scientific revolutions and solve problems like the energy crisis that we could never achieve otherwise. Moreover, there is no guarantee that if we stop spending money on space research, poverty, hunger and other pressing issues would be better addressed with that fund and they will be solved.
In conclusion, the debate surrounding the cost of space exploration is multifaceted. While some argue that the expenses are too high, detracting from pressing issues on Earth, others emphasize the benefits and advancements it brings to society. Personally, I believe that space exploration is a worthy endeavour as it will bring unprecedented benefits to humankind. Moreover, the diversion of budget from space exploration to poverty alleviation, or environmental conservation will never bring favourable and long-term results.
Model Answer 2:
Space exploration gets a huge budget every year. While many argue that the benefits it brings do not worth the money that is being spent, others opine that the programme ought to be carried on, even though the operating costs are huge. This essay will discuss both these views. Personally, I concur with the latter view and will show that despite being expensive the space programme has an enormous contribution to technological advancements and the economy.
It is often believed by many that the money spent on space exploration is not justified. Many vociferous opponents of space exploration claim that nations derive no direct advantages from space exploration. A case in point is velcro, which was used during the Apollo mission to fasten equipment for astronauts. But the moon offered us nothing except some photos of the planet below.
Nations, however, ought to persist with their space programme in spite of bearing the huge cost, according to many others. This is because it paves the way for the development of various sophisticated technologies that contribute significantly to the economy and improve lives on the planet. Without space programmes, for instance, we would not have the Global Positioning System (GPS), accurate weather forecast, ultraviolet filters in cameras and sunglasses, and solar cells, to name but a few. In addition, the current medical research in space could cure many deadly diseases and increase life expectancy, and these experiments cannot be conducted on Earth.
In my opinion, the money that countries spend on space exploration creates positive impacts. It facilitates highly skilled jobs, advances leading-edge technologies, and opens up the possibility of finding answers that humans have been looking for centuries. For these reasons, I think that space exploration should continue.
In conclusion, a generous fund should be put into space exploration because it positively impacts technological advancements that keep on advancing our civilisation. Despite the cost, the benefits are enormous.