1. Introduction

In the previous unit, your book described the launch abort system, which is capable of saving crew´s life if something goes wrong at the launch of a rocket. Units 3b and 3c deal with the same system, explaining its principle in detail. Thus, you will have a chance to see the sequence of events that occur after the system is activated. The order of these events is not arbitrary, but it is set in advance.  Linguistically, there are several ways to indicate this order: either you can use sequencers (first, then, next, after that, consequently), correct verb tenses, conditional clauses or time clauses, sometimes even in their reduced form. This means that stylistically, you can use a variety of linguistic forms, thus preventing undesirable repetitions.

 

Contents:

Revision: conditional clauses:

  • If the crew capsule did not have the protective cover, the hot exhaust would burn the crew.

Revision: sequencers: First, then, next, after that, consequently, finally.

Time clauses:

  • After/Once/When/As soon as the capsule reaches a safe altitude, the parachute opens up/will open up.

Reducing time clauses:

  • The computer detects a problem. Then it activates the abort engine.
  • = After the computer detects a problem, it activates the abort engine.
  • = After detecting a problem, the computer activates the abort engine.