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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. How long does Joan tell Vanessa that they can get the shuttle and crew home?

2. When the T-38 assignments come in, who is Joan assigned to fly with?

3. Including Joan, how many candidates are to be in Group 9, when Joan joins NASA?

4. How long does it take the light of the red star Antares to reach Earth?

5. When do the ASCANS go to the National Space Technology Labs in Mississippi?

Short Essay Questions

1. What regret does Vanessa have when she realizes Steve is dead?

2. Why does Joan play the piano after a long week of classes in the fall of 1980?

3. What does Joan love about astronomy and the universe?

4. How does Joan support Barbara after Barbara gets pregnant?

5. In June 1981, why does Joan have to call Barbara and tell her she cannot pick Frances up from school on Monday?

6. What program is about to be launched when Joan is selected as a candidate to become an astronaut in 1979?

7. Why does Vanessa close her eyes as she prepares to enter the cabin?

8. What does Vanessa ask Joan to help her with, and why does asking for help embarrass her?

9. What does Vanessa share with Joan about her father?

10. What are some of the roles astronauts fill when they are not on a space mission?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Vanessa is fascinated with the history of flight. Why does the history of flight enthrall Vanessa and give her hope?

Essay Topic 2

Joan has always felt like a misfit. She has felt as though she does not belong. Why has Joan felt like a misfit, and how does joining NASA help Joan make peace with who she is and what she can do?

Essay Topic 3

Cliffhangers are a literary device that leaves readers wondering what will happen next. How does Reid use cliffhangers in Atmosphere? How do the cliffhangers create suspense?

(see the answer keys)

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