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Student Article

Top 10 Heaviest Spacecraft Ever Launched

By: Thomas Ling
Originally Published in  Science Focus

Exploring the largest and heaviest spacecraft that have ventured into space.

The article "Top 10 Heaviest Spacecraft Ever Launched" from BBC Science Focus examines the most massive spacecraft to have flown in Earth's orbit and beyond.
Student Article Info

BBC's Science Focus is packed with news, discoveries, ideas and innovations to keep you up-to-speed with the complexities of the fast-moving world around us. Learn more about subscriptions here.

A satellite orbiting in space with Planet Earth in the background
© Getty

Most passages are available in three different versions: Level 1 (Grade 3-5), Level 2 (Grade 6-8), and Level 3 (Grade 9-12). Some more complex texts are available only in Level 2 and Level 3. Use the versions that are most appropriate for the students in your class.

Note: The BBC Learning Hub Editorial Team made use of AI tools to create multiple versions of this article, each tailored to different student reading levels. Every version undergoes a thorough review by our BBC Learning editors to ensure accuracy, quality, and appropriateness.

1
Level 1 Reading Passage
Grades: 3-5Lexile Level: 400-600L
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2
Level 2 Reading Passage
Grades: 6-8Lexile Level: 700-900L
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3
Level 3 Reading Passage
Grades: 9-12Lexile Level: 800-1000L
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