US moves to ban billboards in space (Free Talking Class)

Story:
The US Government does not want billboards in space.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed to amend its regulations to ensure that it can enforce a law that prohibits "obtrusive" advertising in zero gravity.

"Objects placed in orbit, if large enough, could be seen by people around the world for long periods of time," the FAA said in a regulatory filing.

Currently, the FAA lacks the authority to enforce the existing law.

For instance, outsized billboards deployed by a space company into low Earth orbit could appear as large as the moon and be seen without a telescope.

Big and bright advertisements might hinder astronomers.

"Large advertisements could destroy the darkness of the night sky," regulators said.

- Reuters



Topic: Billboards in Space


Title: Billboards in Space

Source: ABC News Online, Reuters

Level: Intermediate

Vocabulary


advertise(ment)
amend
astronomer(s)
authority
aviation
billboard(s)
deploy(ed)
enforce
ensure
hinder
obstrusive
outsized
prohibit
propose(d)
regulation(s)
regulator(s)
telescope


Interesting Expressions
zero gravity

Talking Points


Do you agree with the idea of prohibiting billboards in outer space?
Why or why not?

What would be the benefits and disadvantages of allowing advertisements in space?

Does the U.S. (or any country) control what can or cannot be done in space?

Who has the authority to enforce space laws?

What will happen if no regulations are put on space advertising?

What do you think about the commercialization of outer space?

If you were a millionaire, would you spend money on a trip into space?



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Source:
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