レッスンを予約する
Step 1
Read the Article
Read the article to understand the main idea.
記事を読んで、おおよその内容をつかみましょう。
Europe looks to Nordic space race to scale back US dependence
Two small spaceports in the far north of Sweden and Norway are racing to launch the first satellites from mainland Europe into space as the region looks to reduce its reliance on U.S. players.
U.S. President Donald Trump’s “America First” policies and the war in Ukraine have prompted Europe to ramp up its independent capabilities in a variety of areas, including defense and space operations.
Amid fears that Elon Musk — Trump’s one-time ally — could limit Ukraine’s access to SpaceX’s 7,000 Starlink satellites, which are vital for the country’s communications, Europe has been rushing to find alternatives.
But there’s a mountain to climb.
In 2024, the U.S. carried out 154 launches of hardware into orbit, while Europe managed just three. Out of $143 billion (¥21 trillion) in global public investment in space ventures last year, Europe accounted for only 10%, an EU study shows.
(Reuters)
Step 2
Check the Vocabulary and Phrases
Check the following vocabulary and phrases.
以下の単語やフレーズの発音、意味、使い方を確認しましょう。
reliance
依存
The state of needing somebody/something in order to survive, be successful, etc.
Our reliance on the internet is growing every year.
私たちのインターネットへの依存は毎年大きくなっています。
ramp up
強化する
To increase or make something stronger, especially in speed, amount, or effort
The school ramped up safety rules after the accident.
事故の後、学校は安全ルールを強化しました。
capability
能力
The ability or qualities necessary to do something
She has the capability to speak three languages.
彼女には3つの言語を話す能力があります。
alternative
代替手段
A thing that you can choose to do or have out of two or more possibilities
Walking is a healthy alternative to driving.
歩くことは車に乗る代わりにできる健康的な方法です。
account for
〜の割合を占める
To form or make up a particular amount or part of something
Women account for half of the students in the class.
女性はクラスの学生の半分を占めます。
Step 3
Comprehension Questions
Answer the following questions based on the article.
理解度問題に挑戦しましょう。
Why is Europe trying to become less dependent on the U.S. in space activities?
How does Europe’s space activity compare to that of the U.S. in 2024?
Step 4
Discussion
Share your opinions on the following questions.
以下の質問について、自分の考えを述べてみましょう。
Do you think Europe should invest more money in space projects? Why or why not?
In your country, is space exploration an active industry?
Would you like to travel to space one day?
Would you like to work in the space industry if you had the chance? Please explain your answer.
In your country, is space seen more as business, science, or politics?