NASA Launches Climate Satellite to Study Polar Heat Emissions
Context: Recently, NASA launched the first of two climate satellites aimed at studying heat emissions at Earth’s poles. The second satellite is set to be launched in the coming days. This mission, named PREFIRE (Polar Radiant Energy in the Far-InfraRed Experiment), focuses on understanding polar heat emissions. Relevance: GS III: Science and Technology Dimensions of […]
Types of Space Tourism
Context: Recently, Gopi Thotakura, an India-born commercial pilot based in the US, became the first space tourist from India. She, along with five other space tourists, made a short recreational trip to space. Relevance: GS III: Space Dimensions of the Article: Space Tourism Definition: Market Growth: Types of Space Tourism: Challenges: Karman Line Definition: Origin: […]
Lab-grown Diamonds (LGDs)
Context: India is playing a significant role in the lab-grown diamond industry, positioning itself as the world’s second-largest producer of precious stones created in laboratories rather than extracted from the earth. Relevance: GS III: Science and Technology Dimensions of the Article: What are lab grown diamonds? How are LDGs produced? What are Lab-Grown Diamonds (LDGs) […]
The PREFIRE Polar Mission Explained
Context: A NASA PREFIRE polar mission is set to be launched from New Zealand on May 22. Relevance: GS III: Science and Technology The PREFIRE Polar Mission Explained: Overview: Objective: Aim: Satellite Operation: Mission Objectives: -Source: Indian Express
Soil Stabilization Project
Context: The state highways department of Tamil Nadu has initiated a project titled ‘slope stabilization using soil nailing and hydroseeding method’ along several areas surrounding the Nilgiris’ major roads. This project aims to prevent soil erosion and enhance stability in vulnerable areas, thereby ensuring safer and more resilient road infrastructure in the region. Relevance: GS […]
What is Xenotransplantation?
Context: Recently, the first recipient of a modified pig kidney transplant passed away after hisgroundbreaking xenotransplantation surgery. His death was not linked to the transplant. Relevance: GS III- Science and Technology, GS II- Health Dimensions of the Article: What is Xenotransplantation? Why are Pigs Often Used for Xenotransplantation? Historical Utilization: Anatomical and Physiological Resemblance: Cost-Effectiveness and Accessibility: Organ […]
Indian Space Situational Assessment Report 2023
Context: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) recently published the Indian Space Situational Assessment Report (ISSAR) for 2023. This report offers a detailed analysis of India’s space assets and assesses their vulnerability to potential collisions in space. The ISSAR provides valuable insights into the current state of India’s space infrastructure and aims to enhance the […]
Widal Test Overview
Context: The Widal Test’s propensity for erroneous results is obfuscating India’s typhoid burden, increasing expenses, and risking more antimicrobial resistance. Relevance: GS II: Science and technology Widal Test Overview: Limitations of the Widal Test: -Source: The Hindu
Boeing’s Starliner Overview
Context: The launch of the Boeing Starliner, which was set to take astronaut Sunita Williams to space for a third time, has been postponed due to a technical glitch. Relevance: GS III: Science and Technology Dimensions of the Article: Boeing’s Starliner Overview: Mission Objectives: Delays and Significance: -Source: Indian Express
Key Features of Indian Aircraft Carriers
Context: In a remarkable display of naval capability, the Indian Navy’s two aircraft carriers, INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant, recently conducted “twin carrier operations.” This involved simultaneous take-offs of MiG-29K fighter jets from both carriers, followed by cross-deck landings. Such operations highlight a unique capability possessed by only a select few nations and underscore India’s […]