Duolingo / PTE / IELTS writing task 2 – Outweigh essay

Discuss the merits and demerits of space exploration. To what extent do the benefits outweigh the disadvantages?

Sample answer by Lifestyle Training Centre:

Space exploration comes with numerous merits and demerits. However, upon careful examination, it becomes evident that the benefits of space exploration significantly outweigh the disadvantages.

First and foremost, space exploration drives scientific advancement. It encourages research and innovation, leading to discoveries and technologies that have applications beyond space missions. Examples include advancements in telecommunications, medical technology, and materials science.

Secondly, space exploration offers insights into the origins and potential future of our planet. Studying other celestial bodies helps scientists better understand Earth’s history, climate, and potential threats from space, such as asteroid impacts. Thirdly, space exploration can provide solutions to global challenges. Technologies developed for space missions can be repurposed for challenges on Earth, such as water purification systems, sustainable agriculture practices, and renewable energy solutions.

On the other hand, space exploration is costly. Developing and executing space missions requires significant financial resources, which can divert funds from other critical needs on Earth, such as education and healthcare. Furthermore, there are ethical concerns related to the potential contamination of celestial bodies. Space missions may inadvertently introduce terrestrial microorganisms to other planets, compromising scientific research and the integrity of extraterrestrial environments.

In conclusion, the advantages of space exploration far outweigh the disadvantages. It fuels scientific progress, provides insights into Earth’s history and potential future, and offers solutions to global challenges. While cost and ethical concerns exist, the knowledge and innovations gained from space exploration benefit humanity in numerous ways. Space exploration represents a pioneering and essential endeavor for our understanding of the universe and the improvement of life on Earth.