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GS Paper: GS3-17.Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, Robotics, Nano-technology, Bio-technology and issues relating to Intellectual Property Rights.

  • Scientists back new Alzheimer’s drug: Benefits vs Risks

    Why in the News?

    Donanemab, a new Alzheimer’s disease therapy developed by Eli Lilly, has gained unanimous support from independent scientists advising the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), moving it closer to clinical use.

    What is Donanemab?

    • Donanemab is a monoclonal antibody, which means it is a laboratory-produced molecule designed to function like antibodies in the immune system.
    • It is specifically developed for individuals in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, including those with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia.

    How Does Donanemab Work?

    • It targets amyloid beta proteins in the brain. Amyloid beta plaques are one of the defining features of Alzheimer’s disease.
    • Mechanism of Action: The drug binds to amyloid beta plaques and promotes their removal from the brain. This action is intended to slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s disease by reducing the accumulation of these toxic plaques.

    How do the benefits of the drug stack up against its risks?

    • Target Population: The drug is intended for those in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease (mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia).
    • Benefits: Significant clinically meaningful slowing of the disease, allowing patients to retain their functions for a longer time. Phase 3 study shows a 35.1% slowdown in cognitive decline in early Alzheimer’s patients over 76 weeks.
    • Risks: Main adverse effects include brain swelling (24%) and brain bleeds (19.7%), with most cases being asymptomatic.Three treatment-related deaths reported.Amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA) like brain bleeds and seizures were mostly non-serious and resolved after discontinuation of therapy.
    • Risk Management: The key risks can be mitigated through appropriate labeling and clinical monitoring. Further risks will be characterized through post-authorization studies.

    Why is a breakthrough of this kind important?

    • Rising Burden of Alzheimer’s: The global population is ageing, leading to an increased burden of diseases like Alzheimer’s. In India, 5.3 million people are currently living with dementia, expected to rise to 14 million by 2050.
    • Lack of Effective Treatments: There are limited options for disease-modifying treatments for Alzheimer’s. Innovations like donanemab are crucial for providing new hope and potential therapies.
    • Economic Considerations: While the drug is expensive, it offers the potential for several more years of quality life for patients.

    Why was the approval for the drug delayed?

    • Additional Data Requirements: The USFDA wanted to understand further the data relating to the therapy, especially regarding the limited dosing protocol used during trials.
    • Limited Dosing Protocol: During the trial, therapy was stopped in patients who achieved a certain level of amyloid beta plaque clearance, which is a distinguishing feature of donanemab compared to other therapies.
    • Previous Drug Approval Irregularities: Scrutiny increased after irregularities were found in the approval process of the first drug, aducanumab, which involved close collaboration between the regulator and the drugmaker and approval despite negative trial outcomes. The second drug, lecanemab, also had cautious optimism from doctors due to its demonstrated efficacy with fewer side effects.

    Conclusion: Ensure rigorous and transparent review processes for new Alzheimer’s treatments, incorporating comprehensive data analysis and post-authorization studies to monitor long-term safety and efficacy.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Stem cell therapy is gaining popularity in India to treat a wide variety of medical conditions including leukaemia, Thalassemia, damaged cornea and several burns. Describe briefly what stem cell therapy is and what advantages it has over other treatments? (UPSC IAS/2017)

  • N332-GT5 and eOD-GT8: Advancements in HIV Vaccine Development

    Why in the News?

    Researchers at the Duke Human Vaccine Institute have successfully induced broadly neutralising antibodies (bNAbs) against HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) through vaccination for the first time.

    About HIV/AIDS:

    • Emergence: The first cases of AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) were reported in the early 1980s, primarily among gay men in the United States.
    • Discovery of HIV: In 1983-1984, scientists identified HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) as the cause of AIDS.
    • Global Spread: HIV/AIDS quickly became a global pandemic, affecting millions of people worldwide.

    Causes:

    • HIV is transmitted through contact with certain body fluids of an infected person, including blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk.
    • Common modes of HIV transmission include unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing needles or syringes, and from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

    Symptoms:

    • Acute HIV Infection: Many people experience flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes, within 2-4 weeks after infection.
    • Asymptomatic Stage: After the initial symptoms subside, HIV often enters a latent stage where individuals may not experience any symptoms for years.
    • Progression to AIDS: Without treatment, HIV gradually weakens the immune system, leading to the development of opportunistic infections and cancers. This advanced stage is known as AIDS and is characterized by severe immune deficiency.

    Vaccines Development:

    • Challenges: Developing an HIV vaccine has been challenging due to the virus’s ability to mutate rapidly and evade the immune system.
    • Vaccine Candidates: Numerous vaccine candidates have been tested over the years, but none have yet been successful in providing robust protection against HIV infection.
    • Hope for the Future: Despite setbacks, advances in vaccine development, such as the identification of promising candidates like N332-GT5 and eOD-GT8, offer hope for eventually achieving an effective HIV vaccine.

    How B cells and mRNA play distinct roles in the context of HIV infection?

    1.    B cells (B lymphocytes):

    • B cells are a type of white blood cell crucial for the immune response.
    • In HIV infection, B cells participate in the adaptive immune response by producing antibodies specific to HIV antigens.
    • These antibodies can neutralize HIV particles, tag infected cells for destruction by other immune cells, and contribute to the immune memory against HIV.

    2.    mRNA (messenger RNA):

    • mRNA is a molecule that carries genetic information from DNA to the ribosomes, where proteins are synthesized.
    • In the context of HIV, mRNA is involved in the replication process of the virus.
    • HIV uses its RNA genome to produce viral mRNA, which directs the synthesis of viral proteins necessary for the assembly of new virus particles.
    • Understanding HIV mRNA is crucial for developing antiviral therapies that target viral replication, such as mRNA-based vaccines or mRNA inhibitors.

    N332-GT5 and eOD-GT8: The New Vaccines in Making

    • N332-GT5: This vaccine candidate targets a specific region on the surface of the HIV virus known as the N332 glycan site. By engaging B-cells that have the potential to produce bNAbs against this site, N332-GT5 aims to stimulate the immune system to generate a protective response against a wide range of HIV strains.
    • eOD-GT8: Similarly, eOD-GT8 is designed to target another region on the HIV virus, known as the eOD protein. By leveraging nanoparticles as carriers, eOD-GT8 aims to enhance the immune system’s ability to recognize and neutralize HIV, ultimately leading to the production of bNAbs.

    What are Broadly Neutralizing Antibodies (bNAbs)?

    • In the 1990s, scientists discovered that some HIV-infected individuals produced bNAbs, which neutralize many viral strains.
    • bNAbs target viral protein areas crucial for infectivity, making them less likely to change.
    • Despite their effectiveness, bNAbs take years to develop, by which time HIV has often evolved to escape them.

    Developing bNAb-Based Vaccines

    • The goal is to make the immune system produce bNAbs quickly in response to a vaccine.
    • Germline targeting involves three steps:
      1. Identify and engage B-cells capable of producing bNAbs.
      2. Use a booster to guide these cells to produce stronger bNAbs.
      3. Refine bNAbs to neutralize a wide range of HIV strains.

    PYQ:

    [2013] Which of the following diseases can be transmitted from one person to another through tattooing?

    1. Chikungunya

    2. Hepatitis B

    3. HIV-AIDS

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • How SpaceX’s Starship can revolutionise space travel and exploration?

    Why in the News?

    • SpaceX’s Starship rocket completed its first fully successful test flight. This test flight brings SpaceX closer to its goal of creating a fully reusable rocket system, a development that could revolutionize space exploration and travel.

    What is Starship?

    • Starship is a two-stage heavy lift-off vehicle designed for crew and cargo transport to Earth orbit, the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
    • It stands nearly 120 meters tall, surpassing the Saturn V rocket.
    • The Super Heavy booster is powered by 33 Raptor engines, generating significant thrust, surpassing existing rocket systems like NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS).
    • Raptor engine fuel uses a mix of liquid oxygen and liquid methane, enabling efficient propulsion for the rocket.

    Cost Reduction and Efficiency with Starship

    • Starship can carry up to 150 tonnes of payload to low-Earth orbit.
    • It can be refuelled in space, thereby promising a significant reduction in the cost of space travel.
    • In-orbit refuelling allows Starship to operate like an aeroplane, reducing downtime between missions and maximizing efficiency.
    • Starship’s fully reusable design minimizes the need for costly hardware replacement, unlike traditional rocket systems.

    Scientific Benefits of Starship

    • Enhanced Payload Capability: Starship’s capacity for heavy payloads enables the launch of larger space telescopes and equipment for lunar and Martian missions.
    • Exploration Potential: Scientists can deploy larger and more sophisticated instruments, such as drilling rigs, to explore the Moon and Mars in unprecedented detail.
    • Sample Return Missions: Starship’s capability to return to Earth facilitates the retrieval of valuable samples from other planets, aiding in scientific research and understanding.

    PYQ:

    [2018] With reference to India’s satellite launch vehicles, consider the following statements:

    1. PSLVs launch satellites useful for Earth resources monitoring whereas GSLVs are designed mainly to launch communication satellites.
    2. Satellites launched by PSLV appear to remain permanently fixed in the same position in the sky, as viewed from a particular location on Earth.
    3. GSLV Mk III is a four-stage launch vehicle with the first and third stages using solid rocket motors, and the second and fourth stages using liquid rocket engines.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only
    (b) 2 and 3
    (c) 1 and 2
    (d) 3 only

  • Hydrogen Line: A Unique Signal

    Why in the News?

    The hydrogen line stands as a pivotal tool in contemporary astronomy, serving various purposes from studying distant stars to questing for extraterrestrial intelligence, should it exist.

    What is a Hydrogen Line?

    • The hydrogen line is a special type of light that hydrogen atoms emit.
    • It happens when an electron, a tiny particle that orbits the nucleus of the hydrogen atom, jumps from a higher energy level to a lower one.
    • This jump releases energy in the form of light, specifically with a wavelength of about 21 centimetres. This wavelength is what scientists call the hydrogen line.

    Why is it Important?

    • Hydrogen is everywhere in the universe. It’s the simplest and most abundant element, making up about 75% of the universe’s elemental mass.
      • So, studying the hydrogen line allows us to understand a lot about the composition and distribution of matter in the universe.
    • By observing the hydrogen line’s emission from different regions of space, astronomers can create maps showing where hydrogen gas is located.
    • Secrets about the early Universe: The hydrogen line also holds secrets about the early universe. Shortly after the Big Bang, the universe was filled with hydrogen gas.
      • By studying the hydrogen line from distant parts of the universe, astronomers can learn about its conditions and evolution billions of years ago.

    How Do We Interpret Hydrogen Line?

    • Radio telescope data enables mapping of hydrogen distribution, revealing locations of hydrogen clouds crucial for understanding galaxy and galaxy cluster formation and evolution.
    • Observing hydrogen line emission from different galaxy parts enables studying internal structures and dynamics, like rotation curves, offering insights into mass distribution within galaxies.
    • Observing hydrogen lines from distant galaxies unveils early universe conditions, aiding in understanding cosmic evolution’s initial stages.

    What’s Next?

    • New Discoveries: Scientists are continually developing new technologies and techniques to improve the sensitivity and resolution of radio telescopes.
      • This enables them to detect fainter signals and uncover new insights into the universe’s hydrogen content.
    • Exploring Dark Matter: The hydrogen line observations could also contribute to understanding dark matter, an invisible substance that makes up about 27% of the universe’s total mass-energy content.
      • By studying the hydrogen distribution in relation to the gravitational effects observed in galaxies, scientists hope to shed light on the nature of dark matter.

    PYQ:

    [2012] A team of scientists at Brookhaven National Laboratory including those from India created the heaviest anti-matter (anti-helium nucleus). What is/are the implication/implications of the creation of anti-matter?

    1. It will make mineral prospecting and oil exploration easier and cheaper.
    2. It will help prove the possibility of the existence of stars and galaxies made of anti-matter.
    3. It will help us understand the evolution of the universe.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Will understanding Cancer become a data problem? 

    Why in the news?

    WHO reports 33,000 new brain cancer cases yearly in India, highlighting widespread suffering.

    What is brain cancer?

    • Brain cancer, also known as primary brain cancer, is an overgrowth of cells in the brain that form masses called brain tumours.
    • It is different from secondary brain cancer, which occurs when cancer that began in another part of the body spreads to the brain

    The World Health Organization (WHO) Report:

    • Incidence of Brain Cancer: WHO reports approximately 33,000 new incidences of brain cancer annually in India.
    • Global Cancer Observatory 2020: Brain cancer ranks as the 19th most common type of cancer worldwide.

    Use of Data Analytical Tools in Diagnosis:

    • Potential of Data Analytics: Utilization of data analytical tools like Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) can simplify the diagnosis process.
    • Advantages: Data analysis can provide real-time results with precision, reducing the need for invasive procedures like surgeries.
    • Liquid Biopsy: The introduction of techniques like liquid biopsy offers a less invasive alternative to surgery, enhancing patient comfort.

    Impact on Risks, Discomfort, and Pain:

    • Reduction of Risks: Adoption of data analytics in diagnosis can lower the risks associated with invasive procedures, ranging from short-term paralysis to death.
    • Enhanced Patient Experience: By offering less invasive alternatives, such as liquid biopsy, patients and their families can experience reduced discomfort and pain during the diagnostic process.
    • Improved Precision: Data analytics enable clinicians to detect genetic patterns indicative of cancer cells, facilitating early detection and treatment planning, ultimately leading to better outcomes for patients.

    Way forward:

    • Emphasize the transformative potential of data analytics in oncology research, particularly in simplifying diagnosis and reducing risks and discomfort for patients.
    • Highlight the importance of leveraging innovative technologies like NGS to unlock new possibilities in cancer research and treatment.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q What are the research and developmental achievements in applied biotechnology? How will these achievements help to uplift the poorer sections of the society? (UPSC IAS/2021)

  • First Human Case of Avian H5N2 Infection

    Why in the News?

    • The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed the death of a Mexican resident due to bird flu, marking the first confirmed case of human infection with the H5N2 variant.
      • This H5N2 strain is different from another bird flu variety-H5N1 which infected people in America recently.

    What is Avian Influenza A (H5N2)?

    • Avian Influenza A (H5N2) is a subtype of the influenza A virus that primarily circulates among birds but can infect humans under certain circumstances.
    • Human infections typically result from direct contact with infected birds or contaminated environments, showcasing the zoonotic nature of the virus.

    Symptoms of H5N2

    • Infection of H5N2 may cause mild to severe upper respiratory tract infections and can be fatal.
    • Conjunctivitis, gastrointestinal symptoms, encephalitis and encephalopathy have also been reported.

    Diagnostic and Treatment Protocols

    • Laboratory Diagnosis: The identification of avian influenza in humans necessitates laboratory testing to confirm the presence of the virus.
    • WHO Guidance: The World Health Organization periodically updates technical protocols, such as RT-PCR methods, to enhance the detection of zoonotic influenza.
    • Treatment Strategies: Antiviral medications, notably neuraminidase inhibitors like oseltamivir and zanamivir, demonstrate efficacy in reducing viral replication duration and improving survival prospects for afflicted individuals.

    Influenza A Viruses

    • The alphanumeric codes of H and N are used to subdivide the viruses according to what kinds of proteins are on the surface of the virus based on 2 types:
    1. Hemagglutinin (HA) 
    2. Neuraminidase (NA)
    • There are 18 known HA subtypes and 11 known NA subtypes.
    • In birds, 16 HA and 9 NA subtypes have been identified. (Two additional subtypes, H17N10 and H18N11, have been identified in bats.)
    • Many different combinations of HA and NA proteins are possible.
    • For example, an “A(H7N2) virus” designates an influenza A virus subtype that has an HA 7 protein and an NA 2 protein.
    • Similarly, an “A(H5N1)” virus has an HA 5 protein and an NA 1 protein.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] H1N1 virus is sometimes mentioned in the news concerning which one of the following diseases?

    (a) AIDS

    (b) Bird flu

    (c) Dengue

    (d) Swine flu

  • Blaze Star: A Celestial Phenomenon in the Making

    Why in the News?

    • NASA predicts the dim star T Coronae Borealis will become visible to the naked eye by September 2024, reaching brightness comparable to Polaris.
      • A dim star known as the “Blaze Star,” officially designated as T Coronae Borealis (T CrB), located 3,000 light-years from our solar system, is set to become visible to the naked eye for the first time since 1946.

    About the Blaze Star

    • The Blaze Star located in the constellation Corona Borealis, also known as the “Northern Crown,” is situated between the constellations of Bootes and Hercules.
    • To locate Corona Borealis, begin by identifying prominent stars in the summer night sky, such as those of the Big Dipper.

    Understanding the Blaze Star Phenomenon

    • The Blaze Star is a rare recurrent nova, a binary star system comprising a cool, red giant star and a smaller, hotter white dwarf star in orbit around each other.
    • Every 80 years, the red giant transfers matter onto the white dwarf, triggering explosive phenomena.
    • Historical observations suggest the Blaze Star is on the brink of another explosion, following similar brightness patterns observed before previous eruptions in 1866 and 1946.
      • Precursor Signs: The star has been steadily brightening since 2015, followed by a visible dimming in March 2023, mirroring past eruption precursors.

    Implications for Observation

    • Peak Visibility: During its brightness peak, the Blaze Star is expected to be visible to the naked eye for several days, extending to just over a week with stargazing binoculars or a small telescope.
    • Astronomical Insights: The impending eruption offers a unique opportunity for astronomers to observe and study this celestial event, providing valuable insights into stellar evolution and dynamics.

    PYQ:

    [2013]  Consider the following phenomena

    1. Size of the sun at dusk

    2. Colure of the sun at dawn

    3. Moon being visible at dawn

    4. Twinkle of stars in the sky

    5. Polestar being visible in the sky

    Which of the above are optical illusions?

    (a) 1, 2 and 3

    (b) 3, 4 and 5

    (c) 1, 2 and 4

    (d) 2, 3 and 5

  • Neo: A Novel Protein in Bacterial Defense

    Why in the News?

    “Klebsiella pneumoniae” bacteria might employ a newly discovered protein called “Neo” to halt bacteriophage infections.

    About Neo Protein

    • Discovery Details: Researchers, led by Stephen Tang and Samuel Sternberg, reported the discovery of Neo in a 2023 preprint paper on bioRxiv, while investigating Klebsiella pneumoniae.
    • Neo’s Defense Strategy: Bacteria employ diverse immune systems to fend off viral infections, including defense-associated reverse transcriptase (DRT) systems, which Neo is a part of.
      • DRT-2 System: This system involves de novo gene synthesis via rolling-circle reverse transcription (RT) of a non-coding RNA (ncRNA).
      • Operational Process: In uninfected cells, the ncRNA and RT enzyme catalyze the synthesis of a repetitive single-stranded cDNA.
      • Activation by Phage: Phage presence triggers the synthesis of the second-strand cDNA, resulting in long double-stranded DNA.
      • Role of Neo Protein: The translation of this double-strand cDNA produces the Neo protein, which induces potent growth arrest (cell dormancy), thereby protecting the bacterial population from phage proliferation.

    Biotechnological and Medical Implications

    • Potential Applications: Neo represents a promising tool for controlling viral infections, holding significance in both biotechnology and medicine.
    • Evolutionary Connections: Neo’s discovery sheds light on the shared evolutionary history and functional mechanisms of retroelements in the human genome and bacterial reverse transcriptases.
    • Technological Influence: Bacterial reverse transcriptases, predecessors of their eukaryotic counterparts, share analogous mechanisms and have revolutionized molecular biology research methods.

    What is Reverse Transcriptase?

    • Reverse transcription, the conversion of RNA into DNA, is facilitated by the enzyme reverse transcriptase.
    • Discovered by Howard Temin and David Baltimore in 1970, reverse transcriptase has transformed molecular biology research, particularly in studying RNA viruses like HIV.
      • Practical Applications: Reverse transcriptase is instrumental in gene cloning, PCR techniques, genome analysis, and viral load detection in diagnostics, such as the case of SARS-2, aiding in virus surveillance, healthcare management, and vaccine development efforts.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] What is Cas9 protein that is often mentioned in the news?

    (a) A molecular scissors used in targeted gene editing.

    (b) A biosensor used in the accurate detection of pathogens in patients.

    (c) A gene that makes plants pest-resistant.

    (d) A herbicidal substance synthesized in genetically modified crops.

  • [pib] CSIR’s PI-CHeCK Project

    Why in the News?

    • The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) celebrated the completion of the initial phase of its groundbreaking health monitoring project, ‘Phenome India-CSIR Health Cohort Knowledgebase’ (PI-CHeCK).

    What is Phenome?

    • The human phenome refers to the comprehensive set of observable physical and biochemical traits, behaviours, and characteristics exhibited by an individual as influenced by genetics, environment, and lifestyle.
    • It encompasses a wide range of attributes, including but not limited to:
    1. Physical characteristics such as height, weight, eye colour, hair colour, facial features, and body shape.
    2. Biological functions and processes like metabolism, hormone levels, blood pressure, and immune response.
    3. Behavioral traits include personality traits, cognitive abilities, temperament, and mental health conditions.
    4. Disease susceptibility and health outcomes, such as the presence or absence of genetic disorders, chronic illnesses, and response to medical treatments.
    5. Environmental factors such as diet, exercise habits, exposure to toxins, socioeconomic status, and cultural influences.

    What is the PI-CHeCK Project?

    • PI-CHeCK launched on Dec 7, 2023, assesses risk factors for cardio-metabolic disorders in the Indian population.
    • ‘Phenome India’ health check-up camp targets CSIR employees, pensioners, and spouses across 17 states, and 24 cities.
    • Nearly 10,000 volunteers provide comprehensive health data.

    Objectives:

    • Developing India-Specific Algorithms: The project highlights the necessity of developing risk prediction algorithms tailored to India’s diverse genetic and lifestyle landscape, as existing algorithms may not accurately represent the Indian population.
    • Advancing Precision Medicine: CSIR’s commitment to advancing precision medicine is evident through the project’s focus on Predictive, Personalized, Participatory, and Preventive healthcare.
    • Catalyzing Nationwide Initiatives: By generating a comprehensive phenome database, PI-CHeCK aims to catalyze similar initiatives nationwide, ensuring more accurate risk prediction algorithms for India’s diverse population.

    PYQ:

    [2021] “Besides being a moral imperative of a Welfare State, primary health structure is a necessary precondition for sustainable development.” Analyse.

    [2018] Appropriate local community-level healthcare intervention is a prerequisite to achieve ‘Health for All’ in India. Explain.

    [2011] Aspartame is an artificial sweetener sold in the market. It consists of amino acids and provides calories like other amino acids. Yet, it is used as a low-calorie sweetening agent in food items. What is the basis of this use?

    (a) Aspartame is as sweet as table sugar, but unlike table sugar, it is not readily oxidized in human body due to the lack of requisite enzymes.

    (b) When aspartame is used in food processing, the sweet taste remains, but it becomes resistant to oxidation.

    (c) Aspartame is as sweet as sugar, but after ingestion into the body, it is converted into metabolites that yield no calories.

    (d) Aspartame is several times sweeter than table sugar, hence food items made with small quantities of aspartame yield fewer calories on oxidation.

  • Galaxy JADES-GS-z14-0: Insights from NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope

    Why in the News? 

    The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), launched by NASA, has unveiled a groundbreaking find It has captured imagery of the universe’s earliest-known galaxy, revealing unexpected brightness and size given its formation during the universe’s infancy.

    James Webb Space Telescope (JWST)

    • JWST is a joint venture between NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) launched in December 2021.
    • It is an orbiting infrared observatory that will complement and extend the discoveries of the Hubble Space Telescope, with longer wavelength coverage and greatly improved sensitivity.
    • Webb was formerly known as the “Next Generation Space Telescope” (NGST) and it was renamed in 2002 after a former NASA administrator, James Webb.
    • It will be a large infrared telescope with an approximately 6.5-meter primary mirror.
    • JWST is positioned at the Earth-Sun L2 Lagrange point, 5 million km away.
    • It consists of a mirror, spanning 6.5 meters in diameter compared to Hubble’s 2.4 meters, as well as its specialized instruments optimized for infrared observations.

    Key Objectives:

    • JWST observes deeper into the universe than Hubble.
    • Observes celestial objects from earlier epochs.
    • Enables the detection of light from the universe’s earliest stars, dating back over 13.5 billion years.

    About JADES-GS-z14-0 Galaxy 

    • Named JADES-GS-z14-0, this galaxy was formed approximately 290 million years after the Big Bang.
    • Spanning about 1,700 light-years across, it consists of a mass equivalent to 500 million stars akin to our Sun.
    • Despite its ancient age, the galaxy is actively generating stars at a rapid pace, producing around 20 new stars annually.

    Scientific Insights:

    • Historical Context: Previously, the earliest-known galaxy was dated to approximately 320 million years post-Big Bang, indicating the significance of this new discovery.
    • Luminosity Theories: While hypotheses suggest various explanations for the galaxy’s luminosity, including supermassive black holes or unusually bright stars, further research is required to validate these theories.

    PYQ:

    [2012] Which of the following is/are cited by the scientists as evidence/evidence for the continued expansion of the universe?

    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:

    (a) 1 and 2

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1, 3 and 4

    (d) None of the above can be cited as evidence