Space Exploration Task 2 IELTS Essay - Tips & Sample Responses

The IELTS Writing Task 2 includes essay writing on five major types: Opinion Essays, Discussion Essays, Advantages and Disadvantages Essays, Problem and Solution Essays, and Double-Question Essays. “Space Exploration” is a popular topic included in the Opinion, Discussion, Advantage-Disadvantage, or even Problem-Solution essays. 

While writing the essay, maintaining a minimum word limit is mandatory. The minimum word limit for the “IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay: Space Exploration” is 250 words. However, test-takers are advised to write around 270-280 words for better scoring. In this article, we will explore some sample essays for the IELTS Space Exploration Task 2 along with sample questions, structure, sample answers, and vocabulary to boost the overall IELTS band score. 

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IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay: Space Exploration Outline

In the IELTS Writing Task 2 essay on space exploration, candidates are expected to write an essay with a clear argument, examples, and present a balanced perspective when required.

Ideal Essay Structure for Space Exploration Topics:

• Introduction
• Body Paragraph 1: Advantages / Support for Space Exploration
• Body Paragraph 2: Disadvantages / Counter-Arguments
• Conclusion

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Space Exploration Task 2 Sample 1

Topic: Many people think that space exploration is a waste of money and resources. Others believe it is essential for the future of humanity. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Answer:
The debate around space exploration has been going on for years. While some people feel that spending huge amounts of money on space missions is a luxury we can't afford, especially when poverty, climate change, and health issues still affect millions, others strongly believe that exploring space is crucial for scientific growth and possibly even the survival of humankind. This essay will look at both sides before explaining why I believe space research is worth the cost.

Those in favour of space exploration highlight several important points. One major benefit is the scientific progress it brings. Technologies we now rely on every day, like satellite TV, GPS, and accurate weather forecasts, all came from space-related projects. Also, pushing the boundaries of space encourages innovation in many fields, from robotics to engineering. 

On the other hand, many people argue that space programs are extremely costly and don’t offer quick results. The funds used to launch one rocket could instead provide food, clean water, or medical care to people in need. Many believe that solving urgent problems on Earth should come first.

In conclusion, even though space exploration takes a lot of money and effort, it still brings big benefits to science, technology, and maybe even human survival. If done carefully and fairly, it’s possible to look beyond our planet while still taking care of the one we live on.

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IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay: Space Exploration Sample 2

Topic: Some people believe that governments should not spend money on space exploration when there are more urgent needs on Earth. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Answer:
In recent years, space exploration has seen increased government funding, which has led to growing criticism. Some people argue that investing in space is a luxury, especially when poverty, healthcare, and education remain major concerns on Earth. I strongly agree with this view and believe that public funds should be focused on solving immediate human issues before looking beyond our planet.

Firstly, the scale of human suffering and inequality around the world is still alarming. Millions lack access to basic necessities like food, clean water, and medicine. Rather than funding space missions that may or may not provide long-term solutions, governments should invest in healthcare, education, and infrastructure. These sectors offer direct and visible improvements to citizens’ lives.

Secondly, space exploration carries uncertain outcomes. Many missions take years to plan and may fail or provide no tangible benefits. For example, while Mars exploration is fascinating, it does little to address real-time problems like climate change or natural disasters. In contrast, investing in green technologies or disaster management brings more practical advantages to current and future generations.

That being said, I do not reject space exploration entirely. It has contributed to various innovations and expanded human knowledge. However, I believe it should not be a financial priority until global challenges are more under control.

To sum up, although space exploration has value, the immediate needs on Earth are more urgent. Governments should ensure their citizens are safe, healthy, and educated before spending public funds on interplanetary dreams.

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Common Vocabulary for Space Exploration Task 2 Essay

Here is the common IELTS vocabulary for the Space Exploration Essay in the IELTS exam:

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Common IELTS Essay Questions on Space Exploration

Here are frequently asked IELTS Writing Task 2 questions related to space:

• Some people believe that space exploration is a waste of money, while others think it is essential for human development. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Governments should not invest in space research until problems on Earth have been resolved. Do you agree or disagree?
• Space exploration brings more benefits than risks. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Some people think private companies should be responsible for space travel rather than governments. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• In the future, humans may live on other planets. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this?
• Do the benefits of investing in space technology outweigh the drawbacks?
• Many countries are spending billions on space programs while people still suffer from poverty and lack basic services. Is this a justified use of public funds?
• What are the main reasons why nations invest in space exploration? Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
• As space travel becomes more accessible, some believe it could become a major tourist activity. Do you think this is a good idea?
• Some people think space exploration helps unite countries, while others believe it increases global competition. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Should developing countries invest in space programs, or should they focus on domestic development instead?
• What impact has space research had on our daily lives? Is this impact significant enough to justify the investment?
• Space exploration may help us discover alternative planets for human survival. Do you agree or disagree with this idea?
• How important is international cooperation in space research? Should space missions always involve multiple countries?
• With increasing concerns about Earth’s environment, should humanity look to space for solutions, or focus on solving problems here first?

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Conclusion

Space exploration remains a frequent and thought-provoking topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. The IELTS Task 2 essay topic requires you to discuss its benefits, drawbacks, and funding priorities. 

To score good score in the IELTS speaking test, structure your essay clearly, present balanced arguments, and use relevant examples and vocabulary. 

If you are looking for more personalized feedback or want to refine your writing skills, connect with upGrad experts. Take the next step in your IELTS preparation journey with counselling session with upGrad support!