STAR TREK LIVE! - Ontario Science Centre

Teachers Resource Manual
Space Science Glossary
Astronomer
Astronomy
Binary numbers
Biometric
Black hole
Concave lens
Convex lens
Electromagnetic
radiation
Event horizon
Frequency
Gravity
Lift
Mass
Matter
Microgravity
Orbit
Pixels
Satellite
A scientist who studies the stars, planets, and other aspects of space.
The science of studying objects in the universe.
A system for coding data with only two digits: 1 and 0. This coding is based on the
on and off signal principle where 1 means a signal is on and 0 means the signal is off.
The science of measuring and identifying specific characteristics of living organisms.
An object whose mass is concentrated into a small space. The mass still has a
force of gravity. This force of gravity—the event horizon— is so great that it pulls in
both matter and light at a certain distance.
Also mirror; a lens that curves inward like a cave.
Also mirror; a lens that curves outward like a ball.
A type of energy that travels in waves. The wavelength determines its frequency.
There is a continuous spectrum of radiation frequencies. Frequencies are grouped
into radiation types. X-rays, gamma rays, ultraviolet rays, white light, infrared light,
microwaves, and radio waves are all part of the electromagnetic spectrum.
The point of no return of a black hole. Objects that travel past this point cannot
escape the black hole’s force of gravity.
The number of waves per second that an energy type emits. Radio signals are carried
along certain frequencies within the electromagnetic spectrum’s radio wavelength.
The attraction that two masses exert on each other. All objects have a gravitational
pull. The size of the object affects its strength. For example, Earth’s gravity attracts
planes toward its ground. The plane also attracts Earth towards it, but the Earth’s
gravitational force is stronger. Gravity on Earth is the downward force affecting flight.
The upward force affecting flight.
The amount of matter in an object.
Anything with mass that occupies space.
A very low gravity environment, which causes people and objects to be practically
weightless. During the first few days in space, the effects of microgravity can cause
some astronauts to feel nauseated.
A specific path that a planet, satellite, or other space object follows.
The smallest part of a picture. Pixels fit together to form a picture.
An object that orbits a planet. The Moon is a natural satellite that orbits Earth. Geostationary
satellites are artificial satellites that orbit Earth.
Space Science Glossary
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