The topic of space tourism has become increasingly relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing multiple times between 2019-2023. This reflects growing public interest in commercial space travel and its environmental implications. Based on past exam patterns, questions about space tourism often focus on ethical considerations, environmental impact, and resource allocation.
One frequently appearing question type is:
Some people think that space tourism should be promoted while others believe that it should be banned. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of Question Requirements
- Task type: Discussion + Opinion
- Key aspects to cover:
- Arguments for promoting space tourism
- Arguments against space tourism
- Personal stance with justification
- Word count: 250-300 words
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.0)
Space tourism has sparked intense debate regarding its merits and drawbacks. While some advocate for its promotion, others call for its prohibition. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own position.
Proponents of space tourism argue that it offers several significant benefits. Firstly, it drives technological innovation in aerospace engineering, which can have spillover effects in other industries such as medicine and communications. Additionally, the revenue generated from wealthy space tourists could fund further scientific research and make space travel more accessible to ordinary people in the future. The industry also creates high-skilled jobs and stimulates economic growth in related sectors.
However, critics raise valid concerns about space tourism’s negative impacts. The most pressing issue is its substantial environmental footprint, as rocket launches produce excessive carbon emissions and other pollutants that harm the atmosphere. Furthermore, the enormous resources invested in space tourism could be better allocated to addressing urgent earthbound challenges like poverty, healthcare, and climate change. There are also ethical questions about whether such expensive recreational activities are justifiable when millions lack basic necessities.
In my view, while space tourism holds promise for technological advancement, its current form is problematic. I believe it should be strictly regulated rather than banned outright, with mandatory environmental impact assessments and carbon offset requirements. Companies should also be required to invest a percentage of their profits into sustainable technology development and Earth-focused initiatives. This balanced approach would allow the industry to evolve while minimizing its negative consequences.
Space tourism companies working towards sustainable development goals
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
These days, space tourism is becoming popular among rich people. Some people think it is good while others want to stop it. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
On the positive side, space tourism can help develop new technology. When companies make spaceships for tourists, they create new inventions that can help other areas too. Also, it makes money and jobs for many people. Rich tourists pay a lot of money which helps the space industry grow.
However, there are problems with space tourism. The biggest problem is pollution because rockets use lots of fuel and make the air dirty. Also, it costs too much money that could help poor people instead. Some people think it’s not fair that rich people spend so much money on space trips when others don’t have food or homes.
I think space tourism has both good and bad points, but we should control it carefully. Companies should follow strict rules about pollution and safety. They should also help society by sharing their technology and profits. This way, we can have space tourism but make sure it doesn’t harm our planet too much.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.0 Essay Analysis:
- Coherent structure with clear progression
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentences
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Effective use of cohesive devices
- Clear position with nuanced reasoning
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis:
- Basic but clear organization
- Simple but adequate vocabulary
- Some development of ideas
- Basic cohesive devices
- Position stated but less sophisticated reasoning
Key Vocabulary for Space Tourism Essays
- aerospace engineering (n) /ˈeəroʊspeɪs/ – the field of engineering dealing with aircraft and spacecraft
- spillover effects (n) /ˈspɪloʊvər/ – secondary consequences of an activity
- carbon footprint (n) /ˈkɑːrbən/ – total greenhouse gas emissions caused by an activity
- sustainable (adj) /səˈsteɪnəbəl/ – able to be maintained without damaging the environment
- technological innovation (n) /ˌteknoʊˈlɑːdʒɪkəl/ – the development and application of new technologies
- carbon offset (n) /ˈɑːfset/ – reduction in emissions to compensate for emissions elsewhere
- regulatory framework (n) /ˈreɡjələtɔːri/ – system of regulations and guidelines
- environmental impact assessment (n) /ɪmˈpækt/ – evaluation of environmental consequences
Consider practicing with these related topics:
- The ethics of space exploration funding
- Environmental costs of space research
- Public vs private space programs
- Technology transfer from space research
Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and discussion!
