Reading Comprehension Questions:

1. What is the design of the Deep Impact spacecraft?

2. What happened when the impactor hit the comet?

3. What has initial analysis of mission images revealed?

4. Why is the study of comets important?

Discussion Activity (more research might be needed):

1. What are some questions you have about the universe/solar system that don't yet have answers? What would you like to know about the universe?

2. Take one question or topic and design a NASA mission to explore that question. Describe the mission's goals, equipment, and process.

Write a 300-500 word essay on any of these topics providing clear examples. Send your completed editorial to NewsHour Extra [extra@newshour.org]. Exceptional essays might be published on our Web site.