SPLASHED DOWN Meaning and
Definition
-
Splashed down refers to the act or process of a spacecraft or object descending and landing in a body of water, typically an ocean or sea, by creating a large splash upon contact with the surface. This term is commonly used in relation to space exploration missions and the return of spacecraft or their components from space to Earth.
When a spacecraft splashes down, it means that after reentering Earth's atmosphere, it has safely landed on water instead of solid ground. This method of landing is often adopted by space capsules and is considered a reliable and controlled way to return astronauts and equipment from space missions.
The term "splashdown" was specifically popularized during NASA's Mercury program in the 1960s, which successfully accomplished various manned spaceflights. After the completion of their orbits, astronauts in Mercury space capsules would descend through the atmosphere and then parachute into the ocean. This style of landing allowed for a gentle and controlled impact, preventing excessive forces from being exerted on the astronauts upon landing.
Overall, splashing down has become a recognizable and iconic event in space exploration, representing the safe return of astronauts and valuable equipment from their missions beyond the Earth's atmosphere.
Common Misspellings for SPLASHED DOWN
- aplashed down
- zplashed down
- xplashed down
- dplashed down
- eplashed down
- wplashed down
- solashed down
- sllashed down
- s-lashed down
- s0lashed down
- spkashed down
- sppashed down
- spoashed down
- splzshed down
- splsshed down
- splwshed down
- splqshed down
- splaahed down
- splazhed down
- splaxhed down
Etymology of SPLASHED DOWN
The term "splashed down" has its origins in the field of astronautics and space exploration. It specifically refers to the landing or descent of a spacecraft in a body of water, usually the ocean.
The word "splash" comes from the Old English word "splaesan", which means "to splash, sprinkle, or spatter". This usage dates back to the late 14th century. "Splash" is the action of a liquid making a sudden noise, movement, or impact by forcefully hitting a surface.
The addition of "down" in "splashed down" emphasizes the descent or landing aspect of the action. It indicates that the spacecraft is coming down from a higher altitude and making a splash as it touches down on water.
The term became commonly used during the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo missions of NASA in the 1960s and 1970s.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
