| A | B |
| astronomers | experts in the science that deals with the sun, moon, planets, stars and so on |
| crater | a bowl-shaped hole on the surface of Earth or the Moon |
| launch | to send into the air or into other space |
| probes | spacecraft carrying scientific devices to record and report information |
| loomed | appeared dimly or vaguely as a large, threatening shape |
| rille | a long, narrow valley on the surface of the moon |
| runt | animal, person, or plant that is smaller than the usual size |
| staggered | became unsteady; wavered |
| summoning | stirring to action |
| taunted | jeered at; mocked |
| trench | any ditch; deep furrow |
| trudged | waled wearily or with effort |
| conscious | aware of what you are doing |
| feebly | weakly; without strength |
| rift | a split; break; crack |