Astronaut Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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astronaut
[หastrษหnษหt ]
Definition
space exploration
An astronaut is a person trained to travel and work in outer space. They are part of a space mission crew and are responsible for conducting experiments, maintaining spacecraft, and performing spacewalks.
Synonyms
cosmonaut, space traveler, spacefarer.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| astronaut |
Commonly used in American English, it specifically refers to a person trained to travel and work in space, especially as part of the United States' space program.
|
| cosmonaut |
This term is used primarily in Russian and Eastern European contexts, referring to a person trained and certified by the Russian space program to work in space.
|
| space traveler |
A more general term that can refer to any person who travels to space, not necessarily professional astronauts or cosmonauts. This term is often used for space tourists.
|
| spacefarer |
This term carries a more poetic or literary tone, referring to anyone who travels or journeys through space. It is less common in formal or professional contexts.
|
Examples of usage
- Astronauts undergo rigorous training before being sent to space.
- The astronauts aboard the International Space Station conduct various scientific experiments.
- Astronauts wear specialized suits to protect them from the harsh conditions of space.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- The first human in space was Yuri Gagarin, a Soviet astronaut, who orbited Earth in 1961.
- The United States launched its first astronaut, Alan Shepard, on a suborbital flight in 1961, shortly after Gagarin.
Technology
- Astronauts use specialized suits that protect them from the vacuum of space and extreme temperatures.
- Spacecraft are engineered to withstand radiation and microgravity conditions, enabling astronauts to live and work in space.
Science
- Astronauts conduct experiments in microgravity that help scientists understand everything from human health to materials science.
- Research in space has led to advancements in medicine, such as improved cancer treatments and better drug delivery systems.
Pop Culture
- Astronauts have been portrayed in books, movies, and television, often symbolizing exploration and adventure, such as in 'Star Trek' and 'Interstellar'.
- Children's media often features astronauts as heroes, inspiring future generations to pursue careers in science and technology.
Origin of 'astronaut'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the Greek words 'astron' meaning 'star' and 'nautes' meaning 'sailor'.
- It was first used in the mid-20th century as space travel became a reality.
The term 'astronaut' originated from the Greek words 'astron' (star) and 'nautes' (sailor), meaning 'star sailor'. The word was first used in the 1920s to describe a person who travels to the stars. The modern usage of 'astronaut' specifically refers to individuals who travel and work in outer space as part of a space mission crew.