Question

Roosa carried possibly 2000 or more seeds in the cannister in his personal kit, a small canvas pouch that stayed with him as he orbited the Moon in the command module "Kitty Hawk" in February, 1971. Unfortunately, the seed bags burst open during the decontamination procedures after their return to Earth. . . .

How does the information in this excerpt help the reader understand the meaning of the word decontamination?

Answer 1

The information in this excerpt helps the reader understand the meaning of the word "decontamination" by providing context for its usage. In the excerpt, it is mentioned that the seed bags burst open during the decontamination procedures after their return to Earth. This context implies that "decontamination" refers to a process carried out to eliminate or remove any potential contaminants or harmful substances from the command module "Kitty Hawk" and its contents after the mission.

In this context, decontamination is likely a standard procedure conducted by space agencies to prevent the introduction of any potentially harmful materials or organisms from space back to Earth. It ensures that the returned astronauts and spacecraft do not pose any health or environmental risks upon reentry.