Explain the different functions of the aerospace centers in Houston and Cape Canaveral.
The aerospace centers in Houston and Cape Canaveral serve different functions due to their unique locations and history.
1. Johnson Space Center in Houston:
The Johnson Space Center in Houston is the main astronaut training facility for NASA. It is responsible for designing and managing space equipment and vehicles, as well as conducting research on spacecraft design, life support systems, and space medicine. They also work on international cooperative projects, such as the International Space Station (ISS).
2. Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral:
The Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida serves as the launch and landing site for NASA's manned and unmanned space missions. It is responsible for testing and launching spacecraft and payloads, including the Space Shuttle and various space probes. This center also conducts research on sustainable technologies and environmental management.
In summary, the Johnson Space Center in Houston mainly focuses on the astronauts and the equipment they use, whereas the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral largely focuses on launching and landing missions along with conducting research.