Why in the News?

• India is set to launch the European Space Agency’s (ESA) PROBA-3 Mission in December from the Sriharikota spaceport.
  • The mission will use ISRO’s PSLV rocket to place two satellites in orbit, designed to study the Sun’s corona, or outer atmosphere.

About Proba-3 Mission:

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Why in the News?

Indian astronomers at the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (KSO) have achieved a groundbreaking feat by mapping, for the first time, the variation in the Sun’s rotation speed from its equator to its poles.

Sun’s Rotation: Key Facts

• Unlike a solid body, the Sun exhibits differential rotation, meaning different parts of the Sun rotate at different speeds.
• The rotation speed varies depending on latitude, with faster rotation near the equator and slower rotation toward the poles.
• This variation is primarily due to the Sun’s composition of gaseous plasma rather than solid material.

Rotation Period Variation by Latitude:

• Equatorial Regions: The rotation period at the equator is the fastest, around 24.47 days (sidereal rotation).
• Sunspot Zones (about 16 degrees latitude): Rotation slows slightly, with a period of about 27.3 days.
• Higher Latitudes (up to 75 degrees): Rotation slows significantly; for example, at 75 degrees latitude, the rotation period is about 33.4 days.
• Poles: The slowest rotation occurs at the poles, with a period around 31.1 days.

Sidereal vs. Synodic Rotation Periods:

• Sidereal Rotation Period: The time taken for the Sun to complete one full rotation relative to distant stars. It varies by latitude, from 24.47 days at the equator to around 33.4 days at higher latitudes.
• Synodic Rotation Period: This is the time for a fixed feature on the Sun to appear in the same position when observed from Earth. It is longer than the sidereal period due to Earth’s own movement around the Sun, averaging around 26.24 days.

Why Differential Rotation Occur?

• Gaseous Plasma Composition: The Sun is composed of plasma—a hot, ionized state of matter—which allows its different regions to rotate at different speeds.
• Convective Zone Dynamics: The outer convective layer of the Sun contributes to differential rotation. Plasma circulates, rising and sinking, which influences the rotational speed at different latitudes.

Scientific Implications

• Solar Dynamo Theory: The differential rotation of the Sun is central to theories about the solar dynamo—the process that generates the Sun’s magnetic field.
• Mystery of Differential Rotation: Despite extensive research, the exact mechanism behind the Sun’s differential rotation remains an active area of investigation in solar physics.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Why in the News?

Expert astro-photographers and astronomers have gathered at the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve from for the second Star Party.

About Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR)

• The HDSR is a designated area in Changthang region of eastern Ladakh created to control man-made light pollution and protect the naturally dark night skies.
• It spans approximately 1,073 square kilometers and is home to the Indian Astronomical Observatory, operated by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA).
• Established to promote astronomy and astrophotography, it offers some of the darkest skies in India, ideal for astronomical research.
• Hanley is also the home to second-highest optical telescope in the world, established in 2001 by IIA.

Special Features of HDSR and the Surrounding Region

• High Altitude: Hanle is situated at a high altitude, providing clearer skies with minimal atmospheric interference.
• Minimal Light Pollution: The region has low light pollution, which makes it perfect for observing faint celestial objects.
• Dry Climate: The dry weather in the region contributes to excellent visibility, reducing the impact of humidity on astronomical observations.

Significance of HDSR

• Astrophotography and Research: The dark skies allow for detailed observation of celestial phenomena and astrophotography, attracting enthusiasts and researchers.
• Astro-Tourism: The reserve fosters astro-tourism, boosting the local economy by creating jobs for guides and supporting infrastructure.
• Preservation of Night Skies: It plays a crucial role in preserving the natural darkness of the sky, curbing light pollution in the region.
• International Attention: The reserve has attracted amateur and professional astronomers from across India and beyond, making it a hub for astronomical events.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Why in the News?

Philippe Baptiste, head of the French Space Agency, talked about the joint India-France “TRISHNA Mission.”

TRISHNA Mission:

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Why in the News?

The Union Cabinet approved the expansion of the Chandrayaan-4 mission, Venus Orbiter Mission (Shukrayaan Misison), Gaganyaan, the development of India’s first space station (the Bharatiya Antariksh Station), and NextGen launch vehicles.

About Chandrayaan-4 Mission

• Chandrayaan-4 is the fourth mission in India’s Chandrayaan program (2003).
• The mission is currently under conceptualisation and expected to launch around 2027.
• Aims: To develop technology for a successful moon landing and ensure a safe return to Earth.
• The mission will be launched in two phases onboard two LVM3 rockets.
• It will collect lunar samples for analysis on Earth.

About Venus Orbiter Mission (VOM)

• The VOM, also called Shukrayaan-1, is an upcoming ISRO mission targeting a 2028 launch. 
• The mission aims to study Venus’ surface, atmosphere, volcanic activity, and solar wind interactions with its ionosphere.
• It will have a mission duration of 4 years.
• The spacecraft will operate in an elliptical orbit, with distances of 60,000 km at apoapsis and 500 km at periapsis.
• Its payload has a capacity of 100 kg, is powered by 500 watts, and will feature Indian and international instruments for comprehensive analysis.
• For the mission’s payload and technology, collaborations with NASA, CNES (France), and Russia have been established.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Why in the news?

• The Bengaluru-based Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) captured the moon passing in front of Antares, a bright red star.
• Moon occasionally occults bright stars such as Antares and planets as it orbits the Earth once a month.

About Antares (Jyeshtha)

• Antares is a red supergiant star also called ‘Alpha Scorpii,’ located in the constellation of Scorpius.
• It is visible in the southern sky during the summer months in the northern hemisphere.
• It is often referred to as the “heart of the scorpion” due to its location within the Scorpius constellation and its striking red color.
• It is a massive star, with a diameter estimated to be around 700 times that of the Sun.
• It has a relatively low surface temperature compared to other stars, which gives it its distinctive red color.
• The distance to Antares from Earth is approximately 550 light-years, making it one of the closest red supergiant stars to our solar system.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Why in the news?

• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has said its PSLV-C58/XPoSat mission has practically left zero debris in earth’s orbit.

About PSLV Orbital Experimental Module-3 (POEM-3)

• Launched on January 1, 2024, POEM-3 utilized the spent PS4 stage of the PSLV-C58 vehicle, which initially launched XPoSat.
• It is a three-axis-altitude controlled platform with power generation and tele-command & telemetry capabilities, for supporting Payloads.
• The XPoSat mission aimed to leave no debris in space, demonstrating ISRO’s commitment to responsible space practices.
• Upon deployment into its orbit at 650 km, POEM-3 was maneuvered to a 350 km circular orbit to minimize orbit decay time after the experiment’s completion.
• After completing 400 orbits, POEM-3 re-entered Earth’s atmosphere after 73 days in space.

Significance of this achievement

• With the rise in the number of satellites in orbit around the earth, space debris has become a pressing issue.
• Space debris in the low earth orbit (LEO) mainly comprises pieces of spacecraft, rockets, and defunct satellites, and the fragments of objects that have deteriorated explosively as a result of anti-satellite missile tests.
• This debris often flies around at high speeds of up to 27,000 kilometres per hour.
• Due to their sheer volume and momentum, they pose a risk to several space assets.

Threats posed by Space Debris

• Space debris also leads to two major risks:

1. It creates unusable regions of the orbit due to excessive debris, and
2. Leads to the ‘Kessler syndrome’ – creation of more debris due to cascading collisions resulting from one collision.

Various Initiatives to mitigate the Space Debris Issue

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

What is the news?

The International Astronomical Union (IAU) working group for Planetary System Nomenclature recently sanctioned the name ‘Statio Shiv Shakti’ for the landing site of Chandrayaan-3’s Vikram lander, marking a significant milestone in planetary nomenclature.

About International Astronomical Union (IAU)

• The IAU was founded on July 28, 1919, during the Constitutive Assembly held in Brussels, Belgium.
• Its creation was prompted by the need for international collaboration in astronomy, especially after the devastation caused by World War I.
• It aims for promoting and safeguarding astronomy in all its aspects through international cooperation.
• IAU is now headquartered in Paris, France.

Major Activities and Initiatives

• General Assembly: The IAU holds a general assembly every three years in varying parts of the world at which professional astronomers meet to discuss research, new cooperative ventures, and similar matters of professional interest.
• Astronomical Nomenclature: IAU standardizes the nomenclature of celestial bodies, features, and phenomena. It maintains several working groups dedicated to naming conventions for stars, planets, asteroids, and other objects.
• Research and Collaboration: It promotes international cooperation in astronomical research and supports initiatives such as observational campaigns, data sharing, and joint projects.
• Education and Outreach: It is actively involved in promoting astronomy education and public outreach efforts worldwide. It supports educational programs, workshops, and resources for students, teachers, and the general public.

Membership

1. IAU membership spans 92 countries. Out of those countries, 85 are National Members.
2. India is represented by the Astronomical Society of India (ASI).
3. Its members are professional astronomers from all over the world, at the D. level and beyond, who are active in professional research, education, and outreach in astronomy.

About Statio Shiv Shakti’

• Prime Minister announced the name ‘Shiv Shakti’ for the Chandrayaan-3 landing site in August, 2023, reflecting the significance of Indian mythology and cultural heritage.
• It is located at the co-ordinates 69.373°S 32.319°E and lies between the lunar craters Manzinus C and Simpelius N.
• The name ‘Shiv Shakti’ symbolizes the masculine-feminine duality of nature, embodying strength and resolution, with a profound connection to India’s diverse cultural landscape.

PYQ:

2021: Which one of the following is a reason why astronomical distances are measured in light-years?​

1. Distances among stellar bodies do not change.​
2. Gravity of stellar bodies does not change.​
3. Light always travels in straight line.​
4. Speed of light is always same.​

Practice MCQ:

Consider the following statements about International Astronomical Union (IAU):

1. It aims for promoting and safeguarding astronomy in all its aspects through international cooperation.
2. India is represented by the ISRO in the IAU.

Which of the given statements are correct?

1. Only 1
2. Only 2
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

What is the news-

• The Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), an ISRO facility located at Thumba in Thiruvananthapuram, has developed a multi-purpose app ‘SAKHI’ to assist Gaganyaan Crew.

About SAKHI

• The Space-borne Assistant and Knowledge Hub for Crew Interaction (SAKHI) is equipped to monitor astronauts’ health, maintain communication with Earth, and manage dietary schedules.
• It serves as an essential tool for the crew, offering real-time assistance and access to necessary data.
• It would assist astronauts during the Gaganyaan space flight mission, facilitating tasks such as accessing vital technical information and communication.
• Strapped to astronauts’ space suits, it allows for easy access and facilitates the maintenance of mission logs in various formats.

Utility offered by SAKHI

• Health Monitoring: SAKHI provides comprehensive health monitoring, including parameters like blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation. It also reminds astronauts about hydration, dietary schedules, and sleep patterns, enhancing their mission efficiency.
• Communication: SAKHI maintains communication between the crew, onboard computers, and ground-based stations, ensuring seamless connectivity.

Gaganyaan Mission Timeline:

• ISRO aims to launch the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission in 2025.
• The identities of the four astronaut-designates, all IAF test pilots, were revealed at a high-profile event attended by PM at the VSSC on February 27.
• The final crew for the mission will be selected from among the four astronaut-designates.

Also read:

4 IAF Gaganyaan Astronaut-designates named

PYQ:

Which of the following is/are cited by the scientists as evidence/evidences for the continued expansion of the universe? (2012)

1. Detection of microwaves in space
2. Observation of redshift phenomenon in space
3. Movement of asteroids in space
4. Occurrence of supernova explosions in space

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

1. 1 and 2
2. 2 only
3. 1, 3 and 4
4. None of the above can be cited as evidence

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

In the news

• Prime Minister recently laid the foundation stone of ISRO’s second rocket launchport at Kulasekarapattinam.
• Costing Rs 986 crore, this facility, strategically located in Tamil Nadu’s Thoothukudi district, will primarily serve commercial, on-demand, and small satellite launches in the future.

About Kulasekarapattinam

• It will be second after Satish Dhawan Space Centre (Sriharikota Range (SHAR)), founded in Andhra Pradesh’s Sriharikota in 1971, with two launch pads.
• It will focus on the launch of Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLVs) on a commercial basis.
• It would have the capacity to launch 24 satellites per year using a mobile launch structure.
• It strategic location helps save fuel for small rocket launches as the port can launch rockets directly south over the Indian Ocean without requiring crossing landmasses.

Need for such Facility

• Fuel Saving: This is unlike the existing launch site at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, which adds more fuel requirements for launching into a polar orbit as rockets need to follow a curved path to the south to avoid Sri Lanka’s landmass.
• Unburdening SHAR: The opening of the space sector to private players necessitates a rise in commercial launches, prompting ISRO to build a second launchport to alleviate the burden on the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR in Sriharikota.
• Dedicated Launch for Small Payloads: While SHAR handles larger missions, Kulasekarapattinam launchport will cater exclusively to smaller payloads, including those for commercial purposes and on-demand launches.

Geographical Advantages

• Strategic Location: Kulasekarapattinam provides a natural advantage for ISRO’s future launches, especially for the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), due to its geographical, scientific, and strategic positioning.
• Optimized Trajectory: The launch trajectory from Kulasekarapattinam enables a direct southward path for SSLVs, minimizing fuel consumption compared to launches from SHAR, which currently follow longer trajectories.

SSLVs: Purpose and Development

• Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV): SSLV is designed to launch small satellites weighing between 10 to 500kg into Low Earth Orbit, catering to commercial and on-demand launches.
• Mission Successes: SSLV-D1’s launch in August 2022 failed to achieve the intended orbit, but SSLV-D2’s success in February 2023 marked a significant milestone for ISRO’s SSLV program.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Introduction

• India’s pioneering solar mission, Aditya-L1, has achieved a significant milestone as advanced sensors onboard successfully detected the impact of coronal mass ejections (CMEs), marking a leap forward in space exploration.

About Plasma Analyser Package for Aditya (PAPA)

• Purpose: PAPA is an energy and mass analyser tailored for in-situ measurements of solar wind electrons and ions within the low energy range.
• Sensor Composition: PAPA comprises two sensors—Solar Wind Electron Energy Probe (SWEEP) and Solar Wind Ion Composition Analyser (SWICAR)—facilitating comprehensive observations of solar phenomena.
• Functionalities: Sensors not only measure electrons and ions’ energy but also ascertain their direction of arrival, enabling a holistic understanding of solar wind dynamics.

CME Detection and Analysis

• Observations: PAPA detected CME events, notably on December 15, 2023, and during February 10-11, 2024.
• December 15, 2023: Single CME event marked by a sudden increase in electron and ion counts, aligning with solar wind parameters and magnetic field measurements.
• February 10-11, 2024: Multiple minor CME events observed, showcasing nuanced variations in electron and ion counts over time.

Performance Evaluation and Continuous Observations

• PAPA sensors are currently operational in default mode, demonstrating adherence to design specifications across all operational modes.
• Continuous observations underscore PAPA’s efficacy in monitoring space weather conditions and its adeptness in detecting and analyzing solar phenomena.

Back2Basics: Aditya-L1

• Launched successfully by ISRO on September 2.
• Orbits around the Lagrangian Point 1 (L1), maintaining a stable position 1.5 million km from Earth in the direction of the Sun.
• Hosts seven payloads dedicated to studying various aspects of the Sun, encompassing both remote observations and in-situ measurements.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Introduction

• Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved a significant breakthrough in its quest for human spaceflight with the successful human rating of its CE20 cryogenic engine.
• The ground qualification tests, conducted at the High Altitude Test Facility at ISRO Propulsion Complex, Mahendragiri, have been successfully completed, validating the CE20 engine for the Gaganyaan programme.

About CE20 Cryogenic Engine

• It has been designed and developed by the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC), a subsidiary of ISRO.
• It is the first Indian cryogenic engine to feature a gas-generator cycle.
• It is one of the most powerful upper-stage cryogenic engines in the world.
• This engine develops a nominal thrust of 186.36 kN in vacuum.

Key Highlights of Ground Qualification Tests

• Thorough Evaluation: The CE20 engine underwent extensive testing, including evaluation under nominal and off-nominal conditions related to thrust, mixture ratio, and propellant tank pressure.
• Hot Firing Tests: Four engines underwent a total of 39 hot firing tests, accumulating a cumulative duration of 8,810 seconds, surpassing the minimum human rating qualification standard requirement of 6,350 seconds.

Update on First Unmanned Gaganyaan (G1) Mission

• Mission Objectives: The Gaganyaan project aims to demonstrate India’s human spaceflight capabilities by launching a crew of three members into a 400 km orbit for a 3-day mission, followed by a safe return to Earth with a landing in Indian sea waters.
• Acceptance Tests: ISRO has completed the acceptance tests of the flight engine designated for the first unmanned Gaganyaan (G1) mission, scheduled tentatively for the second quarter of 2024.
• Engine Specifications: The flight engine, which will power the upper stage of the human-rated LVM3 vehicle, boasts a thrust capability of 19 to 22 tonnes and a specific impulse of 442.5 seconds.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Central Idea

• Recently, the Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO) in Ladakh has astounded the world with mesmerizing images of a rare red-colored aurora, known as a Stable Auroral Arc (SAR).

What is Stable Auroral Arc (SAR)?

• Rare Phenomenon: SAR is a unique atmospheric occurrence witnessed during a potent G3-class geomagnetic storm.
• Unconventional Origins: Unlike typical auroras resulting from space borne charged particles colliding with the atmosphere, SAR arcs have a distinct genesis.
• Sign of Energy Flow: SAR arcs signify the transfer of heat energy into the upper atmosphere from Earth’s ring current system, a circular pathway carrying massive electrical currents encircling our planet.
• Geomagnetic Storm Influence: During the recent geomagnetic storm, the ring current was dynamically charged due to prolonged intense geomagnetic activity, leading to the manifestation of SAR arcs.
• Global Impact: This celestial event left its celestial mark across several regions worldwide.

How is it formed?

• Solar Wind Interaction: Aurora formation begins when the sun emits charged particles from its corona, creating solar wind. Upon colliding with Earth’s ionosphere, the mesmerizing aurora takes shape.
• Northern and Southern Counterparts: In the Northern Hemisphere, it’s recognized as the northern lights (aurora borealis), while in the Southern Hemisphere, it’s referred to as the southern lights (aurora australis).
• Magnetic Dance: The varying appearance of auroras in different hemispheres is attributed, in part, to the intricate interplay between the sun’s magnetic field and Earth’s magnetic field.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Central Idea

• India’s Automated Radio Telescope Image Processing Pipeline (ARTIP) technology has been instrumental in facilitating remarkable discoveries from distant galaxies observed by South Africa’s MeerKAT Telescope.
• MeerKAT acts as a precursor to the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) Telescope, known for its outstanding sensitivity and sky survey capabilities.
• ARTIP’s cutting-edge image data processing is vital for harnessing MeerKAT’s potential for groundbreaking research.

What is ARTIP?

• Development by Thoughtworks: ARTIP was developed by global technology consultancy firm Thoughtworks at its India offices in Bengaluru and Pune.
• Automation of Data Processing: Since 2017, this collaboration has aimed to automate various critical processes, including data processing, flagging, calibration, and imaging.

How ARTIP operates?

• Configurability: ARTIP is highly configurable and customizable, designed to process MeerKAT-generated data. While initially configured for MeerKAT, its adaptability allows it to process data from uGMRT and VLA class telescopes.
• Pipeline Components: It consists of four individual sub-pipelines, including calibration, cube imaging, continuum imaging, and diagnostics, each serving different stages of the data processing workflow.
• Calibration (ARTIP-CAL): This component calibrates data against known astronomical sources and extracts the target source of interest.
• Cube Imaging (ARTIP-CUBE): The calibrated target is then used to generate sky images using this component.
• Continuum Imaging (ARTIP-CONT): This pipeline focuses on generating images from the calibrated data.
• Diagnostics (ARTIP-DIAGNOSTICS): Providing analysis insights into data processing and quality, it functions as a quality assurance pipeline.

Impactful Discoveries by ARTIP

• Hydroxyl Radical (OH) Detection: ARTIP has contributed to significant discoveries, including the detection of the hydroxyl radical (OH), an essential chemical species found throughout the atmosphere in a distant galaxy.
• Identification of Hydrogen Atoms: It has also played a crucial role in identifying massive hydrogen atoms (Rydberg atoms) in another distant galaxy.
• Scientific Recognition: The MALS data processing with ARTIP has received recognition in the international astronomical journal, Proceedings of Science, for its contributions to these discoveries.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Central Idea

• ISRO’s triumphant landing of the Chandrayaan-3 lander on the moon’s South Polar Region marks a significant achievement in space exploration.
• As India emerges as a key player in the field, the focus now shifts to its multifaceted activities, upcoming missions, and technological advancements.

Diverse ISRO Activities

• Multifaceted Endeavors: ISRO’s operations span research, satellite development, rocket production, satellite tracking infrastructure maintenance, and more, catering to diverse space-related needs.
• Key Focus Areas: Prominent areas of focus include the ‘Gaganyaan’ human spaceflight mission, Reusable Launch Vehicle Technology Demonstrator (RLV-TD), SCE-200 engine development, and the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV).

Glimpses of Upcoming Missions

• Aditya L1: Scheduled for September 2023, Aditya L1 is a scientific mission to study the sun in detail, providing critical insights into solar activities.
• NISAR Satellite: In January 2024, the joint ISRO-NASA NISAR satellite will study earth’s surface processes using advanced radar technology.
• Gaganyaan G1 and G2 Flights: 2024 witnesses test flights of human-rated rockets, a prelude to India’s ambitious Gaganyaan human spaceflight.

Beyond Launches: Technology Innovations

• Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV-TD): Resembling the NASA Space Shuttle, RLV-TD’s design enables air propulsion or gliding, capable of lifting 20,000 kg to low-earth orbit.
• Advanced Propulsion: ISRO explores advanced rocket fuels like methalox propellant and electric propulsion systems, enhancing efficiency and safety.

Moon Missions and Lunar Exploration

• Chandrayaan-3 and Beyond: Chandrayaan-3 paves the way for further lunar exploration, with plans for missions like LUPEX (Lunar Polar Exploration) in collaboration with JAXA.
• LUPEX’s Ambitions: LUPEX aims to deploy a sophisticated lander and rover to study the moon’s South Polar Region, including subsurface sample extraction and night survival.

Expanding Collaborations and Global Partnerships

• Alternative Space Service Providers: ISRO fills gaps left by sanctions on Russia, launching OneWeb satellites and expectedly launching the European Space Agency’s PROBA-3 satellites.
• Lunar Exploration with JAXA: Collaborating with JAXA for LUPEX showcases ISRO’s commitment to global partnerships in space exploration.

Mars and Venus Missions

• Mars Return Mission: ISRO plans a return to Mars, building on its previous successful Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan).
• Venus Exploration: ‘Shukrayaan’: Ambitious plans to study Venus through the ‘Shukrayaan’ mission demonstrate ISRO’s expanding horizons in planetary exploration.

Conclusion

• ISRO’s remarkable accomplishments and future undertakings illuminate its stature as a global space powerhouse.
• From lunar landings to solar studies, human spaceflight to interplanetary missions, ISRO continues to shape the landscape of space exploration.
• By pushing boundaries, fostering innovation, and fostering international cooperation, ISRO cements its role in humanity’s journey to unravel the mysteries of the cosmos.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Central Idea

• The Chandrayaan-3 mission’s recent lunar landing has sparked curiosity about the moon’s various sides – near, far, and even the intriguing ‘dark’ side.
• Delving into these distinctions sheds light on the moon’s enigmatic nature and how space exploration helps us unravel its mysteries.

 Moon’s Visible and Hidden Faces

• Near and Far Sides: The moon’s ‘near side,’ visible from Earth, covers around 60% of its surface. In contrast, the ‘far side’ remained hidden from us until modern spacecraft brought it into view.
• Clarifying the ‘Dark’ Side: Often misconstrued as constantly dark, the ‘dark side’ simply refers to the unseen side. It gets illuminated during the ‘new moon’ phase, challenging the misconception of its perpetual darkness.

Why is their composition different?

• The composition of the Moon’s near and far sides is different, and scientists believe they have identified the reasons behind this discrepancy.
• A study published in the journal Nature Geoscience reveals that the presence of KREEP, a rock enriched in potassium (K), rare-earth elements (REE), and phosphorus (P), plays a crucial role.

Key Points from the Study:

• Moons Near and Far Sides: The Moon’s near side, always facing Earth, has visible dark and light patches known as “maria.” Telescopic observations showed that these were not seas as early astronomers thought, but rather craters or volcanic features. The far side of the Moon has fewer maria than the near side.
• Moon’s Formation: The uneven distribution of volcanism and the KREEP signature between the near and far sides of the Moon puzzled scientists.
• Radioactive Unstable Elements: Potassium (K), thorium (Th), and uranium (U) are unstable, radioactive elements that have various isotopes with different numbers of neutrons. The radioactive decay of these elements generates heat that can melt rocks and contribute to volcanic activity.
• Heat and Melting: The study found that the inclusion of KREEP in rocks not only enhances heating but also lowers their melting temperature. This combination increases volcanic activity beyond what is predicted by radiogenic decay models.
• Geological Record: The Moon’s surface preserves geological events from the early history of the Solar System due to the absence of erosion processes. Concentrations of radioactive elements like uranium (U) and thorium (Th) on the near side provide insights into the Moon’s formation and early Earth conditions.

Phases and Illumination

• New Moon Phase: The ‘new moon’ phase unveils the moon’s ‘far side,’ exposing it to sunlight for about two weeks.
• Historic Revelation: In 1968, astronauts aboard Apollo 8 became the first humans to observe the ‘far side,’ demystifying its hidden features.

Chandrayaan-3’s Approach

• Closest South Pole Landing: Chandrayaan-3’s landing at coordinates 69.36 S and 32.34 E marks the closest approach to the lunar South Pole.
• Exploring Permanently Shadowed Regions: The strategic landing aimed to study regions that never receive sunlight, potentially containing frozen water ice and other lunar resources.
• Sunlight Necessity: Vikram’s nearness to the South Pole ensures sunlight for solar battery recharging, crucial for its operation.
• Choice of Landing Site: The decision to land on the ‘near side’ was driven by mission objectives, including real-time communication with Earth. Landing on the ‘far side’ would have required relay satellites and introduced delays.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Central Idea

• As Chandrayaan-3 succeeded on its lunar soft landing, its six-wheeled rover begins a journey to unravel the mysteries of the Moon.
• With its payloads and instruments, the mission aims to build on the knowledge gained from its predecessors, investigating lunar quakes, mineral compositions, and water-ice presence.

Chandrayaan-3 Mission: Journey post soft landing

• Rover’s Arrival: The 26-kg rover, launched from the Chandrayaan-3 lander, is poised to cover up to 500 meters, commencing its lunar exploration.
• Duration: The lander and rover, equipped with six payloads, are primed to collect valuable data during the single lunar day (equivalent to 14 Earth days) of operation.
• Studying Lunar Quakes: The Chandrayaan-3 mission seeks to deepen insights into lunar quakes, expanding on the knowledge gained from its predecessors.
• Mineral Composition: The rover’s endeavors include examining the mineral compositions of the Moon’s surface, shedding light on its geological history.
• Electrons and Ions Study: The Radio Anatomy of Moon Bound Hypersensitive ionosphere and Atmosphere (RAMBHA) payload aims to study the behavior of electrons and ions near the lunar surface over time.
• Thermal Properties: Chandra’s Surface Thermo physical Experiment (ChaSTE) will explore the thermal characteristics of the Moon’s Polar Regions.
• Lunar Seismic Activity: The Instrument for Lunar Seismic Activity (ILSA) endeavors to measure lunar quakes and study the Moon’s crust and mantle composition.
• Laser Retroreflector Array: A passive experiment by NASA, the LASER Retroreflector Array (LRA), will serve as a target for precise laser measurements in future missions.
• Chemical Insights: The LASER Induced Breakdown Spectroscope (LIBS) aboard the rover is designed to identify the chemical and mineral composition of the lunar surface.
• Elemental Analysis: The Alpha Particle X-ray Spectrometer (APXS) aims to analyze elements such as magnesium, aluminium, silicon, potassium, calcium, titanium, and iron in lunar soil and rocks.
• Mineral Mapping: The CLASS X-ray Fluorescence experiment, covering nearly 95% of the lunar surface, offers detailed mineral mapping. Oxygen-rich minerals hold potential for future missions as fuel resources.

Earlier Chandrayaan: Pioneering discoveries

• Water Unveiled: Chandrayaan-1 played a pivotal role in uncovering the presence of water and hydroxyl molecules in the Moon’s atmosphere and surface, particularly in its southern polar regions.
• Subsurface Water-Ice: Payloads like mini-SAR and Moon Mineralogy Mapper (M3) detected subsurface water-ice deposits within craters near the lunar South Pole.
• Lava Tubes for Habitability: Terrain mapping on Chandrayaan-1 unveiled buried lava tubes that could provide protective habitats for humans, shielding against radiation and extreme lunar conditions.
• Magma Ocean Hypothesis: M3 payload data suggested the possibility of a past magma ocean on the Moon, pointing to its formation and evolution.
• Active Moon: Contrary to previous notions of lunar inactivity, Chandrayaan-1 revealed dynamic lunar processes, including volcanic activity evidenced by lava channels and vents less than 100 million years old.
• Surface-Exosphere Interaction: Measurements indicated that the lunar surface interacts with the exosphere, evident in the emission of carbon dioxide and other gases.
• Solar Mysteries: The Solar X-Ray Monitor on Chandrayaan-2’s orbiter observed solar microflares outside active regions, providing insights into coronal heating mysteries.

Conclusion

• Chandrayaan-3’s scientific journey exemplifies India’s dedication to unraveling the Moon’s mysterious nature.
• As data pours in from its payloads and instruments, the mission builds upon its predecessors, propelling our understanding of lunar geology, composition, and mysteries.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Central Idea

• Scientists from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) have conducted a study to better understand the relationship between the sun’s magnetic field and the interplanetary magnetic space.
• It is said to play a crucial role in space weather.
• The findings provide valuable insights into the Solar Mean Magnetic Field (SMMF) and its connection with the Interplanetary Magnetic Field (IMF).

Sun’s Magnetic Field and Its Generation

• The sun’s magnetic field is generated by electrical currents acting as a magnetic dynamo within the sun.
• The corona, photosphere, and chromosphere of the sun contain the magnetic field, with the chromosphere being a near-transparent layer just above the photosphere.

What is Solar Mean Magnetic Field (SMMF)?

• The SMMF represents the mean value of the line-of-sight component of the solar vector magnetic field averaged over the visible hemisphere of the sun.
• Understanding the SMMF’s effect on the IMF is crucial for better space weather forecasting and response.

Investigating the SMMF at Chromospheric Heights

• IIA scientists aimed to explore the relationship between the SMMF at chromospheric and photospheric heights.
• Their analysis revealed a strong similarity between the two, with the chromospheric SMMF being lower than the photospheric SMMF.
• This suggests that the primordial magnetic field inside the sun could be a source of the SMMF.

Data and Methodology

• The scientists utilized magnetic field measurements from the Synoptic Optical Long-term Investigations of the Sun (SOLIS)/Vector Spectromagnetograph (VSM) instrument from 2010 to 2017.
• They cross-verified the data with measurements from the Wilcox Solar Observatory.

Significance and Future Implications

• Understanding the source and driving parameters of the SMMF contributes to a better understanding of how it influences the IMF.
• This knowledge can aid in improved space weather prediction and response.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will launch Singapore’s TeLEOS-2 satellite this week, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.

What is TeLEOS-2?

• TeLEOS-2 is a Singaporean Earth Observation satellite built by ST Electronics (Satellite Systems).
• It carries a made-in-Singapore Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) capable of providing 1 m resolution data.
• It will be equipped with a 500 GB onboard recorder for recording the data captured and a high speed 800 Mbps downlink.
• In 2015, ISRO launched TeLEOS-1, the first Singapore commercial Earth Observation Satellite, which was launched into a low Earth orbit for remote sensing applications.
• ISRO has so far launched nine satellites belonging to Singapore.

About the launch vehicle: PSLV-CA

• The PSLV-CA was manufactured by ISRO with the first launch on 2007-04-23.
• CA means “Core Alone”, model premiered on 23 April 2007.
• PSLV-CA has 15 successful launches and 0 failed launches with a total of 15 launches.
• The CA model does not include the six strap-on boosters used by the PSLV standard variant.
• The fourth stage of the CA variant has 400 kg less propellant when compared to its standard version.
• It currently has the capability to launch 1,100 kg to a 622 km Sun-synchronous orbit.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your personal mentor for UPSC 2024 | Schedule your FREE session and get Prelims prep Toolkit!

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Central idea

• The ISRO and the NASA have jointly developed a forthcoming satellite called NISAR.
• It will map the most earthquake-prone regions in the Himalaya.

What is NISAR?

• NISAR stands for NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar.
• The mission aims to provide global measurements of the causes and consequences of land surface changes using advanced radar imaging.
• The satellite is equipped with two types of synthetic aperture radars (SAR): L-band and S-band, which will allow for high-resolution, all-weather imaging of the Earth’s surface.
• The NISAR satellite is expected to be launched in January 2024.

How it will be used for earthquake monitoring?

• It will generate data that can potentially give advance warning of land subsidence and identify places that are at greatest risk from earthquakes.
• The geoscience community can use this to determine how strain is building up in various parts of the Himalayas.
• Strain refers to the deformation that occurs in rocks when it is under pressure from other rocks.
• Movements of continental plates that are sliding, colliding, or subducting against each other cause strain.
• With a frequency of 12 days and the ability to provide images even under cloudy conditions, NISAR would be a valuable tool to study deformation patterns, such as in Joshimath.

Strain Map already in place

• In 2021, scientists from the Geological Survey of India published a “strain map” of the Himalayas based on data from 1,252 GPS stations along the Himalayas.
• It identified regions that had the greatest odds of generating earthquakes of magnitude above 8 and their extent.
• However, these many stations are still too few, and there’s only one satellite (Sentinel) that we rely on.
• With NISAR, the costliest space mission ever, we can have a game-changer in earth-science observation.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

Central idea: The Union Cabinet has approved the Indian Space Policy, 2023.

Indian Space Policy, 2023

• It aims to enhance the role of the Department of Space, boost the activities of ISRO missions, and encourage participation from research, academia, startups, and industry.

Salient features

(1) Outlining roles and responsibilities

• The Indian Space Policy, 2023 outlines the roles and responsibilities of various organizations in the space sector.
• The policy includes the responsibilities of ISRO, NewSpace India Limited, and private sector entities.
• This clarity in roles will help in the efficient functioning of the components set up in recent times.

(2) Multistakeholder participation

• The policy aims to boost the space sector by enhancing the role of the Department of Space and encouraging participation from research, academia, startups, and industry.
• This will help in the development of the space segment and create more opportunities for the private sector.

(3) Boosting ISRO Missions

• The Indian Space Policy, 2023 aims to boost the activities of ISRO missions.
• This will help ISRO achieve its objectives more efficiently and effectively.
• It will also help in the development of new technologies and innovative solutions.

(4) Involvement of Private Sector

• The Policy, 2023 recognizes the importance of the private sector in the development of the space sector.
• It encourages the involvement of private sector entities in various aspects of the space segment.
• This will create more opportunities for the private sector and help in the growth of the Indian space industry.

(5) Research and development

• The policy aims to involve research, academia, and startups in the development of the space sector.
• This will help in the development of new technologies, innovative solutions, and talent pool.
• It will also help in the growth of the Indian space industry and create more opportunities for research and development in the sector.

Conclusion

• The Indian Space Policy, 2023 is a comprehensive policy that provides clarity in the roles and responsibilities of various organizations in the space sector.
• The policy aims to boost the space segment, encourage private sector involvement, and involve research, academia, and startups in the development of the sector.
• The policy will help in achieving the objectives of ISRO more efficiently and effectively, and create more opportunities for the private sector and research and development in the space sector.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

In Telangana, private space vehicle company Skyroot Aerospace has test-fired its 3D-printed Dhawan II engine.

Dhawan II Engine

• The Dhawan II engine is a cryogenic engine developed by Skyroot Aerospace for use as the upper stage of the updated version of their Vikram II rocket.
• The engine was recently test-fired for a duration of 200 seconds and demonstrated impressive performance results.
• Cryogenic engines use extremely cold liquid propellants, which can provide greater thrust and enhance the payload-carrying capacity of a rocket.
• The engine was developed using advanced technologies like 3D printing and green propellants.
• Its successful testing marks a significant milestone for Skyroot Aerospace in their efforts to become the first private launcher from South Asia.

Stipulated use

• The Dhawan II engine will be used as the upper stage of the updated version Vikram-2.
• Using a cryogenic upper stage instead of a solid fuel stage enhances the payload carrying capacity of a rocket.
• The updated Vikram II rocket is scheduled to become launch-ready by next year, making Skyroot the first private launcher from South Asia.

Skyroot’s other sub-orbital and orbital flights

• Skyroot carried out its first sub-orbital flight in November 2021, using a single-stage solid fuel Vikram S rocket.
• The company plans to carry out its first orbital flight by the end of this year using the updated Vikram II rocket.
• The Vikram-1 rocket, the first in the series of rockets being developed by Skyroot, will use three solid-fuel stages to take satellites to orbit.

Impressive performance results and advanced technologies

• The endurance test of Dhawan-II demonstrated impressive performance results.
• The company is proud to be at the forefront of developing cutting-edge cryogenic technologies in the private space sector of India.

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

ISRO attempted a controlled re-entry of the Megha Tropiques-1 satellite with leftover fuel to lower the orbit and reduce space debris.

Megha Tropiques Satellite

• The weather satellite Megha Tropiques-1 was developed as a joint mission by Indian and French space agencies.
• It was launched aboard a PSLV by the space agency in 2011.
• And, although the planned mission life of the satellite was only three years, it continued providing data on water cycle and energy exchanges in the tropics for nearly a decade.

How was the satellite brought down?

• With over 120kgs of fuel remaining in the satellite even after being decommissioned.
• ISRO determined that there was enough to attempt a controlled re-entry.
• When the satellites re-enter the atmosphere, the friction causes it to heat up to extreme high temperatures of thousands of degrees Celsius.
• Without a heat shield, 99% of a satellite gets burnt up whether in a controlled re-entry or an uncontrolled one.

Significance of the move

• This was the first time that ISRO attempted such a manoeuvre to clear out space debris despite the satellite not being built to do so.
• Usually, satellites are left in their orbit and because of the gravitational pull of the earth, they come down to the atmosphere over years and years.

Why did ISRO attempt a controlled re-entry?

• ISRO attempted the control re-entry to demonstrate and understand the process of doing so.
• Keeping space clean is crucial with multiple spacefaring nations and private entities launching satellites.
• Thousands of objects are flying around in low earth orbits, including old satellites, parts, and rocket stages.
• Even small debris can destroy active satellites due to high speeds.
• Kessler syndrome is a scary scenario where space debris collisions create more debris.

What happens to satellites usually?

• A controlled re-entry like the one attempted by Isro earlier this week is possible only for satellites in the low-earth orbit – at about 1,000 kms over the surface of the earth.
• These manoeuvres, however, are not usually attempted because fuel reserves have to be maintained in the satellite after mission life is over.
• And, this is impossible for satellites placed in geo-stationary or geosynchronous orbit – where time taken by the satellite to orbit the earth matches Earth’s rotation.
• Such satellites are at altitudes of nearly 36,000 kms.
• For attempting to bring down a satellite from such as orbit, a huge fuel reserve would be needed. This will only make the satellite heavier and costlier at launch.

Also read-

[Sansad TV] Perspective: Cluttered Space

Are you an IAS Worthy Aspirant? Get a reality check with the All India Smash UPSC Scholarship Test

Get upto 100% Scholarship | 900 Registration till now | Only 100 Slots Left

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully conducted a crucial test for its upcoming Chandrayaan-3 mission.

What was the test?

• The test involved the high-thrust cryogenic engine, which will be used to power the rocket that carries the Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft.
• The engine was tested for its endurance and performance under various conditions.

About Chandrayaan-3 Mission

• The Chandrayaan-3 mission is the third lunar exploration mission by the Indian Space Research Organisation.
• The mission follows the successful Chandrayaan-1 and Chandrayaan-2 missions, which were launched in 2008 and 2019 respectively.
• The Chandrayaan-3 mission is designed to further explore the Moon’s South Pole region and conduct various scientific experiments, including studying the lunar surface, mineralogy, and the presence of water.

Significance of the recent test

• With the successful test of the high-thrust cryogenic engine, ISRO is now one step closer to launching the Chandrayaan-3 mission.
• The mission is expected to be a significant step forward in India’s space exploration efforts and will further our understanding of the Moon and its potential for future exploration and exploitation.

Chandrayaan-2: A quick recap

• Chandrayaan-2 consisted of an Orbiter, Lander and Rover, all equipped with scientific instruments to study the moon.
• The Orbiter would watch the moon from a 100-km orbit, while the Lander and Rover modules were to be separated to make a soft landing on the moon’s surface.
• ISRO had named the Lander module as Vikram, after Vikram Sarabhai, the pioneer of India’s space programme, and the Rover module as Pragyaan, which crash-landed.

Inception of Chandrayaan 3

• The subsequent failure of the Vikram lander led to the pursuit of another mission to demonstrate the landing capabilities needed for the Lunar Polar Exploration Mission proposed in partnership with Japan for 2024.

Its design

• The lander for Chandrayaan-3 will have only four throttle-able engines.
• Unlike Vikram on Chandrayaan-2 which had five 800N engines with a fifth one being centrally mounted with a fixed thrust.
• Additionally, the Chandrayaan-3 lander will be equipped with a Laser Doppler Velocimeter (LDV).

Back2Basics: Chandrayaan-1 Mission

• The Chandrayaan-1 mission was launched in October 2008 was ISRO’s first exploratory mission to the moon, in fact to any heavenly body in space.
• The mission was designed to just orbit around the moon and make observations with the help of the instruments onboard.
• The closest that the Chandrayaan-1 spacecraft came to the moon was in an orbit 100 km from its surface.

Attempt UPSC 2024 Smash Scholarship Test | FLAT* 100% OFF on UPSC Foundation & Mentorship programs

Get your Rs 10,000 worth of UPSC Strategic Package for FREE | PDFs, Zoom session, Tests, & Mentorship

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will undertake the second development flight of the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV –D2).

Payload details

The SSLV-D2 is intended to inject ISRO’s EOS-07, U.S.-based firm Antaris’ Janus-1 and Chennai-based space start-up Space Kidz’s AzaadiSAT-2 satellites into a 450-km circular orbit in its 15 minutes flight.

• EOS-07: is a 156.3 kg satellite designed, developed and realized by the ISRO. Its mission objective is to design and develop payload instruments compatible with microsatellite buses and new technologies that are required for future operational satellites.
• Janus-1: Weighing around 10.2 kg, Janus-1 is a technology demonstrator, smart satellite mission based on Antaris software platform.
• AzaadiSAT-2: A 8.7-kg satellite, AzaadiSAT-2 is a combined effort of about 750 girl students across India guided by Space Kidz India, Chennai.

What is SSLV?

• The SSLV is a small-lift launch vehicle being developed by the ISRO with payload capacity to deliver:

1. 600 kg to Low Earth Orbit (500 km) or
2. 300 kg to Sun-synchronous Orbit (500 km)

• It would help launching small satellites, with the capability to support multiple orbital drop-offs.
• In future a dedicated launch pad in Sriharikota called Small Satellite Launch Complex (SSLC) will be set up.
• A new spaceport, under development, near Kulasekharapatnam in Tamil Nadu will handle SSLV launches when complete.
• After entering the operational phase, the vehicle’s production and launch operations will be done by a consortium of Indian firms along with NewSpace India Limited (NSIL).

Vehicle details

(A) Dimensions

• Height: 34 meters
• Diameter: 2 meters
• Mass: 120 tonnes

(B) Propulsion

• It will be a four stage launching vehicle.
• The first three stages will use Hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) based solid propellant, with a fourth terminal stage being a Velocity-Trimming Module (VTM).

SSLV vs. PSLV: A comparison

• The SSLV was developed with the aim of launching small satellites commercially at drastically reduced price and higher launch rate as compared to Polar SLV (PSLV).
• The projected high launch rate relies on largely autonomous launch operation and on overall simple logistics.
• To compare, a PSLV launch involves 600 officials while SSLV launch operations would be managed by a small team of about six people.
• The launch readiness period of the SSLV is expected to be less than a week instead of months.
• The SSLV can carry satellites weighing up to 500 kg to a low earth orbit while the tried and tested PSLV can launch satellites weighing in the range of 1000 kg.
• The entire job will be done in a very short time and the cost will be only around Rs 30 crore for SSLV.

Significance of SSLV

• SSLV is perfectly suited for launching multiple microsatellites at a time and supports multiple orbital drop-offs.
• The development and manufacture of the SSLV are expected to create greater synergy between the space sector and private Indian industries – a key aim of the space ministry.

Crack Prelims 2023! Talk to our Rankers

(Click) FREE 1-to-1 on-call Mentorship by IAS-IPS officers | Discuss doubts, strategy, sources, and more

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

An earth-observation satellite NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) jointly developed by NASA and ISRO is all set to be shipped to India later this month for a possible launch in September.

What is NISAR?

• NISAR has been built by space agencies of the US and India under a partnership agreement signed in 2014.
• The 2,800 kilograms satellite consists of both L-band and S-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR) instruments, which makes it a dual-frequency imaging radar satellite.
• While NASA has provided the L-band radar, GPS, a high-capacity solid-state recorder to store data, and a payload data subsystem, ISRO has provided the S-band radar, the GSLV launch system and spacecraft.
• Another important component of the satellite is its large 39-foot stationary antenna reflector.
• Made of a gold-plated wire mesh, the reflector will be used to focus the radar signals emitted and received by the upward-facing feed on the instrument structure.

What is the mission?

• Once launched into space, NISAR will observe subtle changes in Earth’s surfaces, helping researchers better understand the causes and consequences of such phenomena.
• It will spot warning signs of natural disasters, such as volcanic eruptions, earthquakes and landslides.
• The satellite will also measure groundwater levels, track flow rates of glaciers and ice sheets, and monitor the planet’s forest and agricultural regions, which can improve our understanding of carbon exchange.
• By using synthetic aperture radar (SAR), NISAR will produce high-resolution images.
• SAR is capable of penetrating clouds and can collect data day and night regardless of the weather conditions.

Crack Prelims 2023! Talk to our Rankers

(Click) FREE 1-to-1 on-call Mentorship by IAS-IPS officers | Discuss doubts, strategy, sources, and more

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now

In a first-of-its-kind discovery, a team of Indian scientists from the Indian Institute of Geomagnetism (IIG) reported the first evidence of the presence of solitary waves around Mars.

What are Solitary Waves?

• Solitary waves are distinct electric field fluctuations (bipolar or monopolar) that follow constant amplitude-phase relations.
• Their shape and size are less affected during their propagation.
• Solitary waves are known to be responsible for the plasma energization and its transport in Earth’s magnetosphere.

Unveiling the undercover solitary waves

• Earth is a giant magnetic entity, wrapped in a magnetosphere generated by the motion of molten iron in its core.
• This magnetosphere casts a protective layer around our home planet, shielding us from the solar winds coughed towards us by the Sun.
• But unlike Earth, Mars lacks a robust intrinsic magnetic field, which effectively allows the high-speed solar wind to interact directly with the Martian atmosphere.
• This interaction suggests that even with a weak and flimsy magnetosphere, the frequent occurrences of solitary waves on Mars remain a possibility.

Why this is a significant feat for India?

• Despite several missions to Mars, their presence has never been detected — until now.
• However, Indian Scientists have successfully identified and reported the first-ever solitary waves detected on Mars.
• They arrived at this result by analyzing about 450 solitary wave pulses observed by the Langmuir Probe and Waves instrument on NASA’s Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN (MAVEN) spacecraft.

Decoding the data

• Their analysis revealed distinct electric field fluctuations, which lasted for about 0.2-1.7 milliseconds.
• Such signals were predominant during dawn or between afternoon to dusk at an altitude of 1000-3500 km from Mars’ surface.
• Further investigation is needed to determine exactly why these waves are dominant during a fixed time of the day.

Significance of such waves on Mars

• These pulses are dominantly seen in the dawn and afternoon dusk sectors at an altitude of 1000–3500 km around Mars.
• Researchers are further exploring their role in the particle dynamics in the Martian magnetosphere and whether such waves play any role in the loss of atmospheric ions on Mars.
• The study of these waves is crucial as they directly control particle energization, plasma loss, transport, etc., through wave-particle interactions.

Crack Prelims 2023! Talk to our Rankers

(Click) FREE 1-to-1 on-call Mentorship by IAS-IPS officers | Discuss doubts, strategy, sources, and more

Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024

Attend Now