A.basicB.applicantsC.extraordinaryD.distinguishE.privateF.contributeG.exposeH.shiftedI.challengesJ.specialtyK.favoredManyofusgrowupdreamingofbec

Question

A. basic        B. applicants    C. extraordinary     D. distinguish     E. private

F. contribute    G. expose       H. shifted          I. challenges      J. specialty     K. favored

Many of us grow up dreaming of becoming an astronaut. Ever wonder what it takes to be one?

Take NASA for example.

In order to catch NASA’s eye would-be astronauts must not only stand out in required skills and pass physical and psychological exams but also find unique ways to __41__ themselves from the harsh competition.

NASA’s requirements for becoming an astronaut have changed over the years. Originally it __42__ candidates with a military flight background with at least 1 000 hours spent in command of a jet aircraft. In 1978 however NASA __43__ its focus to a more varied group of astronauts: scientists and engineers with at least three years of experience in their respective fields.

During the years of shuttle missions everyone had a __44__: some would focus on robotics others on spacewalks or maintenance. To work on the space station astronauts must be able to perform all tasks which encourage __45__ to acquire different experiences. Jeanette Epps an astronaut studied aerospace engineering worked at Ford Motor Company and took a job with the CIA before joining NASA. She says astronauts’ varied backgrounds __46__ to their ability to adapt and learn anything quickly.

After ensuring that candidates are U.S. citizens and that they satisfy __47__ education and experience requirements the selection committee enters a gray area. “We’re not really looking for one thing just a good mix of things ” said Duane Ross the manager for astronaut candidate selection and training.

To the committee candidates who take on __48__ outside of the workplace demonstrate curiosity and energy. Many astronauts who don’t have a military background do hold a(n) __49__ piloting license. Some are enthusiastic mountain climbers scuba(蛙潜) divers or skiers. Others are musicians dancers or play competitive sports. Choosing to __50__ themselves to different extreme environments counts as another way to stand out from the crowd.

Answer 1

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