Multiple choice

Directions: For this question, select the best of the answer choices given.

Robot satellites relay important communications and identify weather patterns. Because the satellites can be repaired only in orbit, astronauts are needed to repair them. Without repairs, the satellites would eventually malfunction. Therefore, space flights carrying astronauts must continue. Which of the following, if true, would most seriously weaken the argument above?

  1. Satellites falling from orbit because of malfunctions burn up in the atmosphere.

  2. Although satellites are indispensable in the identification of weather patterns, weather forecasters also make some use of computer projections to identify weather patterns.

  3. The government, responding to public pressure, has decided to cut the budget for space flights and put more money into social welfare programs.

  4. Repair of satellites requires heavy equipment, which adds to the amount of fuel needed to lift a spaceship carrying astronauts into orbit.

  5. Technical obsolescence of robot satellites makes repairing them more costly and less practical than sending new, improved satellites into orbit.
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
E Correct answer
Explanation

The argument claims astronauts must continue because satellites need in-orbit repair. Option E most seriously weakens this by suggesting that technological obsolescence makes repair economically impractical compared to launching new, more advanced satellites. If the cost-benefit analysis favors replacement over repair, the necessity of manned repair missions disappears. Option A discusses satellite destruction but doesn't address the repair need. Options B and C are irrelevant to the repair argument. Option D mentions repair costs but doesn't suggest an alternative to manned missions.

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