Science and Technology Current Affairs

 

Science and Technology, Important Development for Competitive Exams. 

First Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) Governing Board Meeting chaired by PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the need to find local solutions to global problems during the first Governing Board meeting of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) on 10 September 2024.

ANRF was established based on the recommendations of the National Education Policy 2020 and aims to foster a culture of research and innovation in universities, colleges, and research institutions. ANRF acts as an apex body providing high-level strategic direction for scientific research in India.

SpaceX set to launch private crew on breakthrough spacewalk mission

A crew of four private astronauts is preparing for a risky SpaceX mission that will attempt the first-ever private spacewalk using SpaceX’s new spacesuits and redesigned spacecraft. The mission, called Polaris Dawn, will be launched aboard SpaceX’s Crew Dragon capsule from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

The crew includes billionaire Jared Isaacman, a retired military fighter pilot, and two SpaceX employees. Only government astronauts have previously conducted spacewalks; this is the first commercial spacewalk. Elon Musk described the mission as riskier than usual and emphasized crew safety.

The mission will last about five days in an orbit ranging from 190 km to 1,400 km, the farthest humans have traveled from Earth since Apollo. The spacewalk will occur on the third day at an altitude of 700 km and last around 20 minutes, with the entire cabin depressurized.

Jared Isaacman is funding the mission, which is part of his Polaris program, with future missions planned, including one on SpaceX’s Starship. The crew will participate in scientific experiments to study the effects of cosmic radiation and space vacuum on the human body.

Since the retirement of the Space Shuttle in 2011, SpaceX’s Crew Dragon has become NASA’s primary crewed spacecraft. Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft, a potential competitor to Crew Dragon, has faced propulsion system issues during its NASA test mission.

Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile, Agni-4, successfully launched from Chandipur, Odisha

India successfully launched the Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile, Agni-4, from Chandipur, Odisha on 6 September 2024. The launch was conducted under the Strategic Forces Command (SFC), marking another milestone in India’s defence capabilities.

In April 2024, India successfully tested the nuclear-capable Agni-Prime ballistic missile from Abdul Kalam Island. The Agni missiles are long-range, nuclear weapons-capable surface-to-surface ballistic missiles developed by India. The Strategic Forces Command and DRDO were involved in both tests.

India launched its first reusable hybrid rocket ‘RHUMI-1’

RHUMI-1 Rocket Launch: India launched its first reusable hybrid rocket ‘RHUMI-1’ from Thiruvidandhai, Chennai, on 24th August 2024. The rocket was developed by Tamil Nadu-based Space Zone India in collaboration with the Martin Group. RHUMI-1 carried 3 Cube Satellites and 50 PICO Satellites to collect data on global warming and climate change.

Technology: RHUMI-1 is equipped with a generic-fuel hybrid motor and an electrically triggered parachute deployer. It is 100% pyrotechnic-free and contains no TNT. The rocket uses a combination of liquid and solid fuel propellant systems, enhancing efficiency and reducing operational costs.

Leadership: The mission was led by Anand Megalingam, founder of Space Zone, with mentorship from Dr. Mylswamy Annadurai, former Director of ISRO Satellite Centre.

Space Zone India: SZI is an aero-technology company based in Chennai that provides low-cost, long-term space industry solutions and offers training in Aerodynamics, Satellite, Drone, and Rocket Technology.

Education Initiatives: SZI partners with private and government institutions to raise awareness about careers in the space industry and provides hands-on training. In 2023, SZI led the ‘Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Students Satellite Launch’ project, engaging over 2,500 students in the design and construction of a student satellite launch vehicle capable of carrying 150 PICO satellites.

Q.: Which organization developed India’s first reusable hybrid rocket ‘RHUMI-1’?

A) ISRO
B) DRDO
C) Space Zone India
D) NASA

Answer: C) Space Zone India
RHUMI-1 Rocket Launch: India launched its first reusable hybrid rocket ‘RHUMI-1’ from Thiruvidandhai, Chennai, on 24th August 2024. The rocket was developed by Tamil Nadu-based Space Zone India in collaboration with the Martin Group.

NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore will return to Earth in February 2025 with SpaceX

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) announces that astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore will return to Earth in February 2025 with SpaceX.

  • Initially, their mission was planned for eight days, but they have been in orbit for around eight months due to issues with their Boeing Starliner spacecraft.
  • The astronauts are aboard the International Space Station (ISS) longer than expected due to unforeseen circumstances, making the rescue mission critical.
  • SpaceX will send a specially modified Crew Dragon spacecraft to the ISS equipped with advanced life support systems and additional provisions for their safe return.

Q.: Which astronauts, stuck on the ISS due to a fault in the Boeing spacecraft, are set to return to Earth in February 2025 with SpaceX?

a) Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin
b) Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore
c) Chris Hadfield and Peggy Whitson
d) Mark Kelly and Scott Kelly

Answer: b) Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) announces that astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore will return to Earth in February 2025 with SpaceX.

17th International Earth Sciences Olympiad held in Beijing from August 8th to 16th, 2024

A team of Indian students won three gold, two silver, and three bronze medals at the 17th International Earth Sciences Olympiad, held in Beijing, China, from August 8th to 16th, 2024. The four-member team, consisting of students from Gujarat, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan, competed in categories like the Earth System Project and International Team Field Investigation. Minister of State of Earth Sciences Dr. Jitendra Singh praised the team for their achievement. The Olympiad is a student-focused event organized under the Ministry of Earth Sciences’ REACHOUT scheme.

Q.: Where was the 17th International Earth Sciences Olympiad held from August 8th to 16th, 2024?

a) Tokyo, Japan
b) Beijing, China
c) New Delhi, India
d) Seoul, South Korea

Answer: b) Beijing, China
A team of Indian students won three gold, two silver, and three bronze medals at the 17th International Earth Sciences Olympiad, held in Beijing, China, from August 8th to 16th, 2024.

ISRO launches its latest earth observation satellite, SSLV D3

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched the EOS-08 earth observation satellite on August 16, 2024, using its Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV D3) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.

Mission Details: The mission, named SSLV-D3/EOS-08, is the third and final developmental flight for the SSLV, after which the rocket will become fully operational.

SSLV Rocket: The SSLV rocket is shorter at 34 meters compared to the 44-meter tall PSLV rockets. It is designed to place mini, micro, or nano satellites into Low Earth Orbit (LEO).

Payload: The satellites carried in the SSLV-D3-EOS-08 mission weigh 175.5 kg.

Key Features of SSLV: The SSLV provides low-cost access to space, offers low turn-around time, flexibility in accommodating multiple satellites, and requires minimal launch infrastructure. The SSLV missions are expected to be 20-30% cheaper than PSLV missions, which use bigger rockets designed for deep space missions.

Q.: What is the name of the earth observation satellite launched by ISRO on 16 August 2024, using its Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV D3) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.?

a) EOS-08
b) SSLV-D1
c) PSLV-C50
d) EOS-03

Answer: a) EOS-08
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched the EOS-08 earth observation satellite on August 16, 2024, using its Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV D3) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.

DRDO Successfully Tests Long Range Glide Bomb ‘GAURAV’ from Su-30 MK-I

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the maiden flight test of the Long Range Glide Bomb (LRGB) named GAURAV on August 13, 2024. The test, carried out from the Su-30 MK-I platform of the Indian Air Force, took place off the coast of Odisha.

GAURAV, an indigenously developed air-launched glide bomb weighing one thousand kilograms, accurately hit a target on Long Wheeler’s Island. Designed by the Research Centre Imarat in Hyderabad, this successful test marks a significant milestone in India’s efforts to enhance its indigenous defence capabilities. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the achievement as a step forward in strengthening the Armed Forces.

Q: On August 13, 2024, DRDO successfully conducted the maiden flight test of which indigenously developed glide bomb?

A) SHAURYA
B) PRAHAR
C) GAURAV
D) NIRBHAY

Answer: C) GAURAV
DRDO conducted the maiden flight test of the Long Range Glide Bomb (LRGB) named GAURAV on August 13, 2024. The test, carried out from the Su-30 MK-I platform of the Indian Air Force, took place off the coast of Odisha.

Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar 2024: Honoring Excellence in Science, Technology, and Innovation

The Government has announced the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar 2024, one of India’s highest recognitions in science, technology, and innovation. This award honors significant contributions by individuals or teams in these fields.

  • The ISRO-Chandrayaan 3 Team will receive the Vigyan Team Award for their work in space science.
  • Professor G. Padmanabhan, former Director of the Indian Institute of Science, will be awarded the Vigyan Ratna Award for his lifetime achievements in biological sciences.
  • The Vigyan Shri Award recipients include Anandharamakrishnan C, Umesh Varshney, Bhim Singh, Adimurthi Adi, Syed Wajh Ahmad Naqvi, Sanjay Behari, and Rahul Mukherjee.
  • The Vigyan Yuva Award nominees are Dr. Bappi Paul, Dr. Abhilash, Radha Krishnan Mahalakshmi, Purabi Saikia, Digendranath Swain, Prabhu Rajagopal, and Prashant Kumar.

Full List of Award winners : Download PDF

The awards ceremony will take place on the 23rd August on the National Space Day.

Q.: Who will receive the Vigyan Team Award on 23 August 2024?

a) The ISRO-Mangalyaan Team
b) The ISRO-Chandrayaan 3 Team
c) The DRDO Team
d) The Indian Institute of Science Team

Ans : b) The ISRO-Chandrayaan 3 Team
The ISRO-Chandrayaan 3 Team will receive the Vigyan Team Award for their work in space science.

Q.: Professor G. Padmanabhan will receive the Vigyan Ratna Award for his lifetime achievements in which field?

a) Physical Sciences
b) Chemical Sciences
c) Biological Sciences
d) Environmental Sciences

Ans : c) Biological Sciences
Professor G. Padmanabhan, former Director of the Indian Institute of Science, will be awarded the Vigyan Ratna Award for his lifetime achievements in biological sciences.

Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla selected as ‘Prime Astronaut’ for Indo-US Mission to Space Station

Indian Air Force Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla has been selected as the prime astronaut for the upcoming Indo-US mission to the International Space Station (ISS), announced by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

The National Mission Assignment Board recommended Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla as the prime Mission Pilot and Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair as the backup.

The selected Gaganyatris will begin training in the first week of August 2024. The mission involves scientific research, technology demonstrations, and space outreach activities, benefiting the Indian Human Space Program and strengthening ISRO-NASA cooperation.

This mission is part of a joint effort between ISRO and NASA, formalized during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to the US in June 2023. ISRO’s Human Space Flight Centre (HSFC) has signed a Space Flight Agreement (SFA) with Axiom Space Inc. for the Axiom-4 mission to the ISS.

Q.: Who has been selected as the prime astronaut for the upcoming Indo-US mission to the International Space Station ?

a) Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair
b) Group Captain Ajit Krishnan
c) Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla
d) Group Captain Angad Pratap

Answer: c) Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla
Indian Air Force Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla has been selected as the prime astronaut for the upcoming Indo-US mission to the International Space Station (ISS), announced by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

56th International Chemistry Olympiad : Indian Team Wins one Gold, Two Silver, and a Bronze

The 56th International Chemistry Olympiad was held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from July 21st to 30th, 2024. The Indian team won one Gold, two Silver, and one Bronze medal.

  • Devesh Bhaiyya from Jalgaon, Maharashtra won the Gold medal.
  • Avanish Bansal from Mumbai and Harshin Posina from Hyderabad won Silver medals.
  • Kashyap Khandelwal from Mumbai won the Bronze medal.

Prof. Gulshanara Shaikh and Dr. Shraddha Tiwari guided the Indian team.

327 students from 94 countries participated in the Olympiad.

Q.: Who won the Gold medal for India at the 56th International Chemistry Olympiad held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from July 21st to 30th, 2024?

(A) Avanish Bansal
(B) Harshin Posina
(C) Kashyap Khandelwal
(D) Devesh Bhaiyya

Ans : (D) Devesh Bhaiyya
Devesh Bhaiyya from Jalgaon, Maharashtra won the Gold medal in the 56th International Chemistry Olympiad held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from July 21st to 30th, 2024

India won 2 gold and 3 silver medals at the 54th International Physics Olympiad 2024

The Indian delegation won 2 gold and 3 silver medals at the 54th International Physics Olympiad 2024, held from July 21 to July 29 in Isfahan, Iran

All five Indian participants bagged medals :

  • Rhythm Kedia from Chhattisgarh and Ved Lahoti from Madhya Pradesh bagged gold medals,
  • Akarsh Raj Sahay from Maharashtra, Bhavya Tiwari from Uttar Pradesh, and Jaiveer Singh from Rajasthan were honoured with silver medals.

India’s delegation was led by Prof. Deepak Garg (DAV College, Chandigarh) and Dr. Shirish Pathare (HBCSE, TIFR), with Prof. A. C. Biyani (Retd., Govt. Nagarjuna Post Graduate College of Science, Raipur) and Prof. Vivek Bhide (Gogate-Jogalekar College, Ratnagiri) serving as Scientific Observers.

A total of 193 students from 43 countries participated in the competition. In the country-wise medal tally, India was placed in the fourth position, jointly with Vietnam. China came at the top, followed by Russia and Romania at second and third position, respectively.

Q.: Which participants from India won gold medals at the 54th International Physics Olympiad 2024?

A) Akarsh Raj Sahay and Bhavya Tiwari
B) Ved Lahoti and Jaiveer Singh
C) Rhythm Kedia and Ved Lahoti
D) Rhythm Kedia and Akarsh Raj Sahay

Ans : C) Rhythm Kedia and Ved Lahoti
The Indian delegation won 2 gold and 3 silver medals at the 54th International Physics Olympiad 2024, held from July 21 to July 29 in Isfahan, Iran

Microsoft outage : Global tech failure caused by CrowdStrike software glitch

A global tech failure on 19 July 2024 disrupted operations across multiple industries, halting flights and forcing some broadcasters off-air, affecting banking and healthcare systems.

Cause: The issue was caused by CrowdStrike’s “Falcon Sensor” software update, which led to Microsoft Windows crashing and displaying the “Blue Screen of Death.”

Nature of the Issue: The glitch in CrowdStrike’s EDR (Endpoint Detection and Response) product caused the problem, making remote updates impossible and necessitating manual fixes on each affected endpoint.

Reason for Widespread Impact: The widespread impact is due to the extensive use of cloud technology and the large market share of the affected software, running on millions of computers worldwide.

Questions: What caused the global tech failure on 19 July 2024?

  • A) A cyber attack
  • B) A software update of CrowdStrike’s EDR product
  • C) Hardware malfunctions
  • D) Natural disaster

Ans : B) A software update of CrowdStrike’s EDR product
The issue was caused by CrowdStrike’s “Falcon Sensor” software update, which led to Microsoft Windows crashing and displaying the “Blue Screen of Death.”

Aditya-L1 spacecraft, has completed its first halo orbit around the Sun-Earth L1 point

India’s first solar mission, the Aditya-L1 spacecraft, has completed its first halo orbit around the Sun-Earth L1 point. ISRO conducted a station-keeping maneuver on July 3, 2024, to ensure a smooth transition into the second halo orbit.

The Aditya-L1 mission is an Indian solar observatory positioned at Lagrangian point L1. It was launched on September 2, 2023, and successfully inserted into its targeted halo orbit on January 6, 2024.

The spacecraft takes 178 days to complete one revolution around the L1 point. During its orbit, the Aditya-L1 spacecraft faces various perturbing forces that affect its trajectory, as explained by ISRO.

Q: How long does it take for the Aditya-L1 spacecraft to complete one revolution around the L1 point?

a) 92 days
b) 178 days
c) 365 days
d) 730 days

Ans : b) 178 days
The Aditya-L1 mission is an Indian solar observatory positioned at Lagrangian point L1. It was launched on September 2, 2023. The spacecraft takes 178 days to complete one revolution around the L1 point.

DRDO handed over the Medium Range-Microwave Obscurant Chaff Rocket (MR-MOCR) to the Indian Navy

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) handed over the Medium Range-Microwave Obscurant Chaff Rocket (MR-MOCR) to the Indian Navy on 26 June 2024 in New Delhi.

The Microwave Obscurant Chaff is a niche technology developed by DRDO’s Defence Laboratory in Jodhpur. This technology obscures radar signals and creates a microwave shield around platforms and assets, reducing radar detection.

Special type of fibres have been assembled in the medium range chaff rocket. When fired, the rocket forms a microwave obscurant cloud in space, spreading over a sufficient area.

Q: What happens when the Medium Range-Microwave Obscurant Chaff Rocket (MR-MOCR) is fired?

a) It explodes on impact
b) It forms a microwave obscurant cloud in space
c) It releases flares
d) It emits a high-frequency sound

Ans : b) It forms a microwave obscurant cloud in space
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) handed over the Medium Range-Microwave Obscurant Chaff Rocket (MR-MOCR) to the Indian Navy on 26 June 2024 in New Delhi.

ISRO successfully conducted the third and final landing experiment of its Reusable Launch Vehicle ‘Pushpak’

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully conducted the third and final landing experiment of its Reusable Launch Vehicle ‘Pushpak’ on June 23, 2024 at the Aeronautical Test Range in Chitradurga, Karnataka.

The experiment, named RLV LEX-03, demonstrated autonomous landing capability.

The Chinook helicopter released Pushpak from an altitude of 4.5 kilometers. Pushpak autonomously executed cross-range correction maneuvers and accomplished a precise horizontal landing at the runway center line, approaching with a speed of 320 kmph.

The experiment reaffirmed ISRO’s expertise in acquiring critical technologies for the development of a reusable launch vehicle, which will help reduce launch costs and advance space exploration.

Pushpak employed multi-sensory fusion including an inertial sensor, radar altimeter, flush air data system, Pseudolite system, and NavIC navigation system.

Q: Where was the third and final landing experiment of ISRO’s Reusable Launch Vehicle ‘Pushpak’ successfully conducted?

A) Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh
B) Aeronautical Test Range, Chitradurga, Karnataka
C) Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Kerala
D) Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore

Ans : B) Aeronautical Test Range, Chitradurga, Karnataka

Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore safely safely docked with the International Space Station (ISS)

Sunita Williams, a 58-year-old Indian-American astronaut, and Barry Wilmore, a NASA astronaut, launched aboard the Boeing Starliner from Cape Canaveral, Florida, on June 5. On June 7, 2024, they safely docked with the International Space Station (ISS).

  • The mission, Boeing Crew Flight Test (CFT), aims to certify the Starliner for regular crewed flights to the ISS under NASA’s Commercial Crew Program.
  • If successful, Starliner will become the second private spacecraft, after SpaceX’s Crew Dragon, to transport astronauts to and from the ISS.
  • The astronauts will spend about a week aboard the ISS, conducting tests and validating Starliner’s systems, before returning to Earth with a parachute-assisted landing in the western US.
  • The ISS is a collaborative project involving NASA, Roscosmos, ESA, JAXA, and CSA, serving as a microgravity laboratory and orbiting Earth at approximately 400 kilometers (250 miles). It has been continuously occupied since November 2000.

Q: What is the name of the mission in which Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore were safely safely docked with the International Space Station (ISS) on June 7, 2024?

A. Starliner Test Flight
B. NASA Crew Mission
C. Boeing Crew Flight Test (CFT)
D. SpaceX Crew Mission

Ans : C. Boeing Crew Flight Test (CFT)

Q: What is the International Space Station (ISS)?

A. A lunar base established by NASA
B. A collaborative spacecraft orbiting Earth, used for scientific research and international cooperation
C. A Mars rover developed by ESA
D. A space tourism station run by private companies

Ans : B. A collaborative spacecraft orbiting Earth, used for scientific research and international cooperation

Indian-origin NASA astronaut Sunita Williams becomes first woman to pilot new Spacecraft on maiden crewed test flight

Indian-origin NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, along with Butch Wilmore, became the first to fly to space aboard the Boeing Starliner’s first-ever crewed mission. The 59-year-old Williams created history by becoming the first woman to fly on the maiden mission of a new human-rated spacecraft.

The crew was launched on 5 June 2024 aboard the United Launch Alliance’s Atlas V rocket from Space Launch Complex-41 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. This is the third attempt, with weather being 90% favorable for the launch. Butch, 61, is commanding the flight, and Williams is piloting it. The duo will stay at the International Space Station for about a week before returning to Earth aboard the reusable crew capsule.

The Starliner mission aims to carry astronauts and cargo for future NASA missions to low Earth orbit and beyond.

Q: Who became the first to fly to space aboard the Boeing Starliner’s first-ever crewed mission in June 2024?

a) Neil Armstrong and Sunita Williams
b) Buzz Aldrin and Rakesh Sharma
c) Chris Hadfield and Kaplana Chawala
d) Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore

Answer: d) Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore

China landed a spacecraft, Chang’e-6, on the far side of the moon in sample retrieval mission

China landed an uncrewed spacecraft, Chang’e-6, on the far side of the moon on June 2, 2024, aiming to retrieve the first rock and soil samples from this region.

This mission enhances China’s status in the global competition to exploit lunar minerals for sustaining long-term astronaut missions and moon bases, with similar interests from countries like the United States.

China’s lunar ambitions include a manned mission around 2030, with Russia as a partner. This follows their 2020 Chang’e-5 mission, which retrieved samples from the moon’s near side.

Q: What is the main objective of China’s Chang’e-6 mission?

A) To establish a moon base
B) To retrieve the world’s first rock and soil samples from the moon’s far side
C) To conduct a manned mission to the moon
D) To explore the moon’s surface for water

B) To retrieve the world’s first rock and soil samples from the moon’s far side

Agnikul Cosmos launched World’s 1st Rocket with fully 3D-Printed Engine

IIT Madras’ startup, Agnikul Cosmos, launched the world’s first rocket with a single-piece 3D printed engine. It was launched from India’s first privately developed launchpad, ‘Dhanush,’ established by Agnikul at Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, at 7:15 a.m. on May 30, 2024.

  • Rocket Details: The rocket, named Agnibaan SOrTeD (SubOrbital Technological Demonstrator), is India’s first semi-cryogenic engine-powered rocket that is entirely designed and manufactured indigenously.
  • Test Flight Objectives: The test flight aims to demonstrate in-house and homegrown technologies, gather crucial flight data, and ensure the optimal functioning of systems for Agnikul’s orbital launch vehicle, the ‘Agnibaan’.
  • Agnibaan Specifications: Agnibaan is a two-stage rocket with a capacity to carry up to 300 kg to a height of 700 km. The rocket engines are powered by liquid oxygen or kerosene.
  • Flexibility: The rocket can access both low- and high-inclination orbits and is designed to be completely mobile.

Q: What is the name of the world’s first rocket with a single-piece 3D printed engine launched by Agnikul Cosmos on May 30, 2024?

A) Agnibaan
B) Agnibaan SOrTeD
C) Dhanush
D) Atmanirbhar

Answer: B) Agnibaan SOrTeD

DRDO successfully flight-tested the RudraM-II air-to-surface missile from a Su-30 MK-I platform

DRDO successfully flight-tested the RudraM-II air-to-surface missile from a Su-30 MK-I platform of the Indian Air Force in Odisha on 29 May 2024.

RudraM-II is an indigenously-developed solid-propelled air-launched missile system.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, IAF, and industry on the successful test, stating it consolidates

DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V Kamat praised the DRDO team’s efforts leading to the successful test.

Q: What is the name of the indigenously-developed solid-propelled air-launched missile system that was successfully tested from the Su-30 MK-I platform?

a) BrahMos
b) RudraM-II
c) Akash
d) Nag

Ans : b) RudraM-II

TCS and IIT Bombay collaborate to create India’s First Semiconductor Chip Imaging Tool

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has partnered with the Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay (IIT-Bombay) to develop India’s first quantum diamond microchip imager. Over the next two years, TCS experts will collaborate with Dr. Kasturi Saha from IIT-Bombay to develop the tool.

Potential Impact: The quantum diamond microchip imager aims to improve precision in examining semiconductor chips, reduce chip failures, and enhance the energy efficiency of electronic devices.

Applications: Semiconductor chips are crucial in various industries, including communications, computing, healthcare, military systems, transportation, and clean energy.

Technological Innovation: The tool will use defects in a diamond’s structure, known as Nitrogen-Vacancy (NV) centers, to non-invasively and non-destructively map semiconductor chips, similar to an MRI in hospitals.

Q: Which two organizations have partnered to develop India’s first quantum diamond microchip imager?

A) Infosys and IIT-Delhi
B) Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and IIT-Bombay
C) Wipro and IIT-Madras
D) HCL Technologies and IIT-Kanpur

Answer: B) Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and IIT-Bombay

Sunita Williams, an Indian-origin astronaut, is set to fly into space for the third time

Sunita Williams, an Indian-origin astronaut, is set to fly into space for the third time. Boing Starliner will carry Williams and Butch Wilmore to the International Space Station.

  1. Spacecraft: She will be piloting Boeing’s Starliner, which is the first crewed spacecraft for the company.
  2. Launch Date: The launch is expected to take place between June 1 and June 5, 2024, after a previous postponement due to a technical snag.
  3. Mission Details: Williams will be part of the Boeing Crew Flight Test to the International Space Station.

Q.: What is the name of the Indian-origin astronaut set to fly into space for the third time?

A) Kalpana Chawala
B) Sunita Williams
C) Rakesh Sharma
D) Sunil Gupta

Ans : B) Sunita Williams

Q.: Which spacecraft will Sunita Williams be piloting for her upcoming mission?

A) SpaceX Dragon
B) Boeing Starliner
C) Orion
D) Soyuz

Ans : B) Boeing Starliner

Gopi Thotakura became the first Indian space tourist

Gopi Thotakura from Andhra Pradesh became the first Indian space tourist and the second Indian to venture into space on Blue Origin’s NS-25 mission.

  1. Mission Details: Blue Origin completed its seventh human spaceflight and the 25th flight for the New Shepard program on 19 May 2024.
  2. Crew Members: The six-member crew included Gopi Thotakura, Mason Angel, Sylvain Chiron, Kenneth L. Hess, Carol Schaller, and former Air Force Captain Ed Dwight.
  3. Previous Indian Space Traveler: Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma was the first Indian citizen to fly to space in 1984.

Q: Who made history as the first Indian space tourist?

A) Rakesh Sharma
B) Gopi Thotakura
C) Kalpana Chawla
D) Sunita Williams

Answer: B) Gopi Thotakura

Q: Who was the first Indian citizen to fly to space in 1984?

A) Sunita Williams
B) Rakesh Sharma
C) Kalpana Chawla
D) Gopi Thotakura

Answer: B) Rakesh Sharma

ISRO successfully conducts hot testing of PS4, Additive Manufactured Liquid Engine

Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) achieved a milestone by successfully hot testing a liquid rocket engine manufactured through Additive Manufacturing (AM) technology on May 9, 2024.

  1. The engine tested was the PS4 engine of the PSLV upper stage, traditionally manufactured through machining and welding methods.
  2. The redesigned engine, using the Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM) concept, was produced in a single-piece using Laser Powder Bed Fusion, eliminating 19 weld joints and reducing raw material usage and production time significantly.
  3. Manufacturing of the engine was carried out by M/s WIPRO 3D, an Indian industry, and hot testing was conducted at ISRO Propulsion Complex, Mahendragiri.
  4. Prior to hot testing, detailed flow, thermal modeling, structural simulation, and cold flow characterization were carried out, leading to four successful developmental hot tests of integrated engine, validating performance parameters.
  5. The engine successfully passed the full qualification duration of 665 s during hot testing, meeting expected performance parameters.
  6. Plans are underway to incorporate this Additive Manufactured PS4 engine into the regular PSLV program.

Q: Which liquid rocket engine did ISRO successfully hot test through Additive Manufacturing (AM) technology on May 9, 2024?

a) PS1 engine
b) PS2 engine
c) PS3 engine
d) PS4 engine

Ans : d) PS4 engine

Exoskeleton Technology: International Workshop in Bengaluru on April 16-17

The first international workshop on ‘Emerging Technologies and Challenges for Exoskeleton’ took place in Bengaluru on April 16-17.

  • Exoskeleton technology involves wearable structures that enhance human strength.
  • Dr. Samir V Kamat and Lt Gen JP Mathew were notable figures in attendance, representing the Department of Defence R&D, DRDO, and the Integrated Defence Staff.
  • The workshop attracted over 300 attendees from DRDO, Services, Industry, Academia, and Researchers, aiming to advance the development of wearable exoskeleton structures to enhance human capabilities.

Q: What is Exoskeleton Technology?

a) A form of virtual reality gaming equipment
b) Wearable structures that enhance human strength
c) A software used for cybersecurity purposes
d) A method of renewable energy production

Answer: b) Wearable structures that enhance human strength

ISRO’s Chandrayaan-3 Team Honoured With John L ‘Jack’ Swigert Jr Award

ISRO Chandrayaan-3 mission team awarded the 2024 John L ‘Jack’ Swigert Jr. award for space exploration by the US-based Space Foundation. The award ceremony took place during the Space Symposium’s annual opening ceremony in Colorado on April 8, 2024.

  1. DC Manjunath, Consul General of India in Houston, accepted the award on behalf of ISRO’s Chandrayaan team.
  2. Space Foundation CEO Heather Pringle praised India’s leadership in space, emphasizing Chandrayaan-3 mission’s technical and engineering excellence.
  3. The John L “Jack” Swigert Jr award commemorates astronaut John L “Jack” Swigert Jr, a pivotal figure in space exploration history.
  4. Previous winners of this award include NASA, University of Arizona OSIRIS-REx team, NASA JPL Mars Ingenuity Helicopter and InSight-Mars Cube One missions, as well as NASA Dawn and Cassini missions.
  5. Space Foundation, established in 1983, is a nonprofit organization providing information, education, and collaboration opportunities for the global space ecosystem.
  6. India’s Chandrayaan-3 mission marked the first successful landing on the Moon’s South Pole in September last year, positioning India as a significant player in lunar exploration alongside the US, Russia, and China.

Q: Who was honored with the 2024 John L ‘Jack’ Swigert Jr. award for space exploration?

a) NASA
b) ISRO Chandrayaan-3 mission team
c) University of Arizona OSIRIS-REx team
d) Russian Space Agency

Ans : b) ISRO Chandrayaan-3 mission team

India’s First Home-Grown Gene Therapy for Cancer at Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay

On April 4, 2024,  President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, visited Mumbai to launch India’s first home-grown gene therapy for cancer at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay.

Key highlights:

  1. The Therapy: The gene therapy in question is known as NexCAR19, which falls under the category of Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy. It was developed by ImmunoACT, a company incubated at IIT Bombay in collaboration with Tata Memorial Hospital. CAR-T therapy is a cutting-edge approach that harnesses the patient’s own immune system to target cancer cells.
  2. Targeted Treatment: NexCAR19 is specifically designed for B-cell cancers, including conditions such as leukemia and lymphoma. By genetically modifying the patient’s T-cells, this therapy enhances their ability to recognize and destroy cancerous cells.
  3. Indigenous Innovation: The fact that this therapy is home-grown is a matter of immense pride for India. It signifies the country’s capability to develop advanced medical solutions within its own borders.
  4. IIT Bombay’s Role: The Bioscience and Bioengineering (BSBE) department at IIT Bombay played a crucial role in designing and manufacturing the CAR-T cells for NexCAR19. This interdisciplinary effort demonstrates the synergy between scientific research and clinical application.
  5. Hope for Patients: With NexCAR19, patients now have access to a novel treatment option that holds promise for improved outcomes and enhanced quality of life.

Q: What is the name of India’s first home-grown gene therapy for cancer?

A) NexCAR19
B) ImmunoACT
C) Tata Memorial Hospital
D) IIT Bombay

Answer: A) NexCAR19

Q: What does CAR-T therapy stand for?

A) Cellular Antigen Receptor Treatment
B) Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell therapy
C) Cancer Antigen Response Technique
D) Cellular Antibody Recognition Therapy

Answer: B) Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell therapy

Moon to get own Standard Time: NASA to Develop Coordinated Lunar Time (LTC)

The White House has directed NASA to establish a unified standard of time for the moon and other celestial bodies, aiming to set international norms in space amid increasing competition.

  1. The directive comes from the head of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), instructing NASA to develop a plan by the end of 2026 for a Coordinated Lunar Time (LTC).
  2. LTC would provide a time-keeping benchmark for lunar spacecraft and satellites, considering the differing gravitational force and other factors on the moon and celestial bodies.
  3. NASA’s Artemis program aims to send astronauts to the moon and establish a lunar base, involving numerous companies, spacecraft, and countries.
  4. Lack of a unified lunar time standard could pose challenges in data transfers between spacecraft, communication synchronization, and commercial activities on the moon.
  5. Deployment of atomic clocks on the lunar surface may be necessary to establish LTC.
  6. The initiative for a unified lunar time standard aligns with international efforts and may involve agreements among nations, including those within the Artemis Accords.
  7. While the U.S. leads in defining the standard, international cooperation will be crucial, potentially influenced by existing standards like Coordinated Universal Time.

Q: What is the name of the proposed standard time for the moon and other celestial bodies?

a) Lunar Standard Time (LST)
b) Coordinated Lunar Time (LTC)
c) Celestial Time Standard (CTS)
d) Universal Lunar Clock (ULC)

Ans : b) Coordinated Lunar Time (LTC)

Q: What is the average time difference between an Earth-based clock and a person on the moon (per Earth day)?

(a) It is always the same.
(b) There is no difference.
(c) An Earth-based clock would be 58.7 microseconds faster.
(d) An Earth-based clock would lose 58.7 microseconds.

Ans : (d) An Earth-based clock would lose 58.7 microseconds.

Bharat Biotech Starts Clinical Trials Of Tuberculosis Vaccine MTBVAC

Bharat Biotech International Ltd has initiated clinical trials for the Tuberculosis vaccine MTBVAC on adults in India.

  1. MTBVAC is the first tuberculosis vaccine derived from a human source, developed by the Spanish bio-pharmaceutical company, Biofabri.
  2. Bharat Biotech is conducting these trials in close collaboration with Biofabri.
  3. The clinical trials involve a dose escalation trial in HIV-uninfected adults, followed by a Phase 2 study in HIV-infected adults to assess the safety of MTBVAC in this population.
  4. The development of MTBVAC is seen as a significant milestone in global vaccinology, highlighting the importance of public-private, national, and international collaboration.

Q: Which company has initiated clinical trials for the Tuberculosis vaccine MTBVAC on adults in India?

a) Biofabri
b) Bharat Biotech International Ltd
c) Spanish bio-pharmaceutical company
d) Global Vaccinology Collaboration

Ans : b) Bharat Biotech International Ltd

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