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Subject: Science and Technology

  • Human Outer Planet Exploration (HOPE)

    Why in the News?

    India has taken a significant step towards interplanetary human missions with the launch of the Human Outer Planet Exploration (HOPE) analogue station at Tso Kar, Ladakh.

    hope

    About HOPE (Human Outer Planet Exploration):

    • Purpose: Simulates Moon and Mars conditions to prepare for future human missions.
    • Developer: Built by Protoplanet (Bengaluru); partially funded by ISRO.
    • Location: Tso Kar, Ladakh (14,500 ft) — chosen for its lunar/Martian-like terrain.
    • Features: Enables isolation research, tech trials, and crew training; 1 of 33 such stations globally.
    • First Mission (2025): Two scientists (Rahul Mogalapalli, Yaman Akot) conducted a 10-day simulation focusing on resilience and mental health.
    • Significance:
      • Boosts India’s human spaceflight readiness.
      • Supports goals like Bharatiya Antariksh Station (2035) and Moon mission (2040).

    India’s Astronomical Assets in Ladakh:

    • Location: Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO), at Mt. Saraswati (4,500 m), Hanle; run by Indian Institute of Astrophysics.
    • Key Instruments:
      • Himalayan Chandra Telescope (optical/infrared)
      • HAGAR (gamma rays, with Tata Institute of Fundamental Research)
      • MACE (Cherenkov telescope, with Bhabha Atomic Research Centre)
    • Stargazing hubs: Hanle, Nubra Valley, Pangong, Tso Moriri.
    • Advantages & Recognition:
      • 270+ clear nights; low humidity; dark skies.
      • Declared India’s 1st Dark-Sky Reserve (2022) to curb light pollution.
    [UPSC 2012] The world’s highest ground based telescopic observatory is located in

    Options: (a) Colombia (b) India* (c) Nepal (d) Switzerland

     

  • Biologics & Biosimilars: The next frontier in Affordable Medicines

    Why in the News?

    While most medicines are small molecule drugs with simple structures, a newer class—biologics and biosimilars—is reshaping modern medicine with their complex, targeted action.

    What are Small Molecule Drugs?

    • Definition: Chemically synthesised, low molecular weight compounds.
    • Features: Fixed structure, chemically stable, easy to replicate, patent-protected.
    • Cost Dynamics: Expensive while under patent; affordable generics post-expiry (e.g., Sovaldi dropped from $84,000 to $1,000).

    About Biologics & Biosimilars:

    • Biologics-
      • Overview: Large, complex drugs made from living cells or organisms.
      • Examples: Insulin (~5,800 daltons), Remicade (~150,000 daltons).
      • Nature: Slight structural variations possible; used for cancer, autoimmune diseases, hormone therapy.
    • Biosimilars-
      • Overview: Near-identical versions of biologics, made after patent expiry.
      • Not Generics: Due to complex cell-based production, they’re similar but not identical.
      • Use: Offer lower-cost alternatives to high-end biologics.

    Regulation and Reform:

    • Current Barriers: Biosimilars need costly trials (animal + clinical), unlike generics.
    • Global Moves: UK and USA are easing animal trial norms (organ-on-chip, human models).
    • India: Still follows older norms; waivers under review, but clinical trials still mandatory.

    Significance for India:

    • Access: Generic small molecules transformed Indian healthcare.
    • Opportunity: Affordable biosimilars can do the same for chronic and rare diseases.
    • Urgency: Regulatory reform is key to reduce costs, speed up access, and widen healthcare coverage.
    [UPSC 2020] What is the importance of using Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines in India?

    (1) These vaccines are effective against pneumonia as well as meningitis and sepsis. (2) Dependence on antibiotics that are not effective against drug-resistant bacteria can be reduced. (3) These vaccines have no side effects and cause no allergic reactions.

    Options: (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only* (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • What is Darwin Tree of Life (DToL) Project?

    Why in the News?

    Researchers in Britain & Ireland are aiming to sequence all animals, fungi and plants under the Darwin Tree of Life (DToL) Project.

    About Darwin Tree of Life (DToL) Project:

    • Objective: To sequence the genomes of all ~70,000 known eukaryotic species (whose cells contain a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles) found in Britain and Ireland.
    • Initiated: In 2019 as a UK–Ireland contribution to the Earth BioGenome Project.
    • Geographic Focus: Great Britain and Ireland, chosen for their well-documented and accessible biodiversity.

    Key Features:

    • Phases:
      • Pilot Phase (2019–2022): Focused on collecting 8,000 species; targeted 2,000 genome assemblies.
      • As of 2025: ~8,000 species collected; over 2,000 genomes sequenced.
    • Approach:
      • Systematic specimen collection and species verification.
      • High-quality genome sequencing using advanced tools and curated pipelines.
    • Public Access: All genome data is released openly via the DToL portal and public archives.
    • Scientific Significance:
      • Enhances understanding of evolution, adaptation, and species relationships.
      • Supports conservation efforts amid growing biodiversity threats.
    • Applications: Informs conservation biology, medicine, agriculture, and climate adaptation.
    [UPSC 2011] At present, scientists can determine the arrangement or relative positions of genes or DNA sequences on a chromosome. How does this knowledge benefit us?

    1. It is possible to know the pedigree of livestock.

    2. It is possible to understand the causes of all human diseases.

    3. It is possible to develop disease-resistant animal breeds.

    Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only* (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR)

    Why in the News?

    The NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) has been successfully launched from Sriharikota using GSLV Mk-II.

    NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR)

    About NISAR (NASA–ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar):

    • Launch Vehicle: GSLV Mk-II | Launch Site: Sriharikota, India
    • Mission Life: 3 years (planned); 5+ years (design)
    • Orbit: Sun-synchronous polar orbit at 747 km with 98.4° inclination
    • Objective: High-precision monitoring of Earth’s surface changes—tectonics, agriculture, ecosystems, ice, floods, and landslides
    • Data Access: Free and near real-time; disaster maps delivered in under 5 hours
    • Hardware Contributions:
      • NASA: L-band SAR, 12m antenna, avionics
      • ISRO: S-band SAR, satellite bus, launch services
    • Development and Collaboration:
      • Initial Concept: 2007 (NASA); ISRO joined in 2012
      • Formal Agreement: 2014
      • Investment: NASA – ~$1.16 billion; ISRO – ~$90 million

    Key Features of NISAR:

    • What is Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR)?
      • Operates day/night, all-weather
      • Simulates large radar antenna via motion
      • Penetrates clouds, vegetation, and soil
    • Dual-Band SAR:
      • L-band SAR (1.257 GHz):
        • Deeper penetration; ideal for forests, tectonic shifts, permafrost
      • S-band SAR (3.2 GHz):
        • Surface details; supports agriculture, flood mapping, biomass tracking
    • Radar Antenna:
      • 12-meter deployable mesh reflector
      • Resolution: 3–10 m spatial; cm-level vertical
      • Swath Width: 240 km
    • Imaging Frequency:
      • Global land/ice coverage every 12 days
      • Less frequent in polar zones
    • Data Output: Generates 80 TB/day (3x current Earth observatories):
      • Biomass and cropland maps
      • High-resolution flood and infrastructure data

    Applications and Impact:

    • Disaster Relief: Before-and-after imagery for planning
    • Climate Monitoring: Glacier melt, forest degradation
    • Agriculture: Crop health, rotation, food security
    • Infrastructure: Detects land subsidence (dams, cities)
    • Strategic Value:
      • Most powerful Earth-observing radar satellite
      • First with dual SAR payload
      • Strengthens India–US space partnership (Artemis, human spaceflight)
    [UPSC 2010] Question: In the context of space technology, what is Bhuvan, recently in the news ?

    Options: (a) A mini satellite launched by ISRO for promoting the distance education in India (b) The name given to the next Moon Impact Probe, for Chandrayaan-II (c) A geoportal of ISRO with 3D imaging capabilities of India* (d) A space telescope developed by  India

     

  • Pralay Missile 

    Why in the News?

    The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted two consecutive test flights of the Pralay missile from the Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Island off Odisha’s coast.

    Pralay Missile 

    About Pralay Missile:

    • Developer: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), led by Research Centre Imarat (RCI) with Indian industry support.
    • Purpose: Tactical surface-to-surface missile for precision strikes along sensitive borders like the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and Line of Control (LoC).
    • Role: Enhances India’s conventional deterrence in short-range battlefield operations.
    • Targets: Designed to destroy high-value assets—radars, command centers, airstrips, and military infrastructure.

    Key Features:

    • Type: Quasi-ballistic surface-to-surface missile
    • Range: 150–500 km
    • Payload: 500–1,000 kg (conventional warheads)
    • Propulsion: Solid-propellant rocket motor
    • Launcher: Mobile platform for rapid deployment
    • Guidance: Advanced inertial navigation with <10 m Circular Error Probable (CEP)
    • Terminal Speed: Up to Mach 6.1
    • Maneuverability: Capable of mid-air trajectory changes to evade interception
    [UPSC 2023]  Consider the following statements:

    1. Ballistic missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds throughout their fights, while cruise missiles are rocket-powered only in the initial phase of flight. 2. Agni-V is a medium-range supersonic cruise missile, while BrahMos is a solid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2*

     

  • Novel Microscope observes Molecular Motion

    Why in the News?

    Over a century after Einstein explained Brownian motion, California Institute of Technology (Caltech) scientists have created a powerful microscope that shows molecules moving in real time at an extremely tiny scale.

    Novel Microscope observes Molecular Motion

    What is Brownian Motion?

    • Definition: Random movement of tiny particles in a fluid due to constant collisions with surrounding molecules.
    • Significance: Validated the existence of atoms and molecules; explained by Albert Einstein in 1905.
    • Particle Behavior: Smaller particles move faster and more erratically; larger ones move slower.

    About Caltech Microscope:  

    • Resolution: Angstrom-level (1 Å = 0.0000000001 m).
    • Speed: Captures hundreds of billions of frames per second.
    • Advantage: Wide-field, single-shot imaging with no sample damage.
    • How It Works?
      • Setup: Fluorescent molecules in water illuminated by ultrafast lasers.
      • Light Capture: Scattered light directed via Digital Micromirror Device.
      • Streak Imaging: Light converted to electron patterns revealing molecular size.
      • Reading Size: Faster changes = smaller molecules; slower = larger.
    [UPSC 2000] Which one of the following can be used to confirm whether drinking water contains a gamma emitting isotope or not?

    Options: (a) Microscope (b) Lead plate (c) Scintillation counter* (d) Spectrophotometer

     

  • Bamboo-Polymer Composite as alternative to Plastics

    Why in the News?

    IIT Guwahati researchers have created a strong, eco-friendly material using bamboo and biodegradable plastic to replace regular plastic in car interiors and other uses.

    About the Bamboo-Polymer Composite:

    • Origin: Made using Bambusa tulda, a fast-growing bamboo from Northeast India.
    • Composition: Reinforced with bio-based and petroleum-based epoxies for strength.
    • Objective: Reduce dependence on synthetic plastics in industrial sectors.
    • Process: Bamboo fibres undergo alkali treatment to bond well with polymers.
    • Evaluation: Tested across 17 parameters—tensile strength, water resistance, cost, etc.

    Key Features and Benefits:

    • High Strength: Suitable for load-bearing automotive components.
    • Thermal Stability: Can withstand high interior vehicle temperatures.
    • Low Moisture Absorption: Ideal for humid environments.
    • Eco-Friendly: Biodegradable, lowers environmental impact.
    • Cost-Effective: ₹4300 per kg—commercially viable.
    • Best Variant: Bamboo + bio-based epoxy FormuLite chosen through performance scoring.

    Applications:

    • Automotive: Dashboards, door panels, seat backs.
    • Electronics & Packaging: Lightweight, durable material.
    • Aerospace: Used for sustainable composite components.
    • Construction: Green alternative for interiors and fixtures.
    [UPSC 2021] Consider the following statements:

    1. Carbon fibres are used in the manufacture of the components used in automobiles and aircrafts.

    2. Carbon fibres once used cannot be recycled.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?”

    Options: (a) 1 only* (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

     

  • UAV Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3

    Why in the News?

    DRDO has successfully test-fired the UAV-Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3.

    UAV Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3

    About ULPGM-V3:

    • Overview: It is a fire-and-forget air-to-surface missile developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
    • Variants: It is an upgraded version of V1 and V2, with improved range, autonomy, and targeting precision.
    • Development: Collaboration by Adani Defence, Bharat Dynamics, Newspace Research Technologies, and over 30 Indian MSMEs/startups.

    Key Features:

    • Weight: 12.5 kg
    • Range: 10 km (day), 2.5 km (night)
    • Accuracy: Passive homing infrared with HD dual-channel accuracy (~10 cm)
    • Warhead Options: Anti-armour, penetration-cum-blast, pre-fragmentation
    • Guidance: Fully autonomous with two-way datalink for mid-course updates
    • Environment: Operates in plains and high-altitude regions, day and night
    [UPSC 2025] With reference to Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), consider the following statements:

    I. All types of UAVs can do vertical landing. II. All types of UAVs can do automated hovering. III. All types of UAVs can use battery only as a source of power supply.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

    (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All the three (d) None *

     

  • AdFalciVax Vaccine for Malaria

    Why in the News?

    The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has introduced AdFalciVax, a new malaria vaccine candidate targeting Plasmodium falciparum.

    About AdFalciVax

    • Developer: Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR); private partners will handle trials and manufacturing.
    • Vaccine Type: Chimeric recombinant vaccine targeting Plasmodium falciparum, the deadliest malaria parasite.
    • Technology:
      • Circumsporozoite Protein (CSP): Offers direct protection to the vaccinated individual.
      • Pro6C Protein: A hybrid of Pfs230 and Pfs48/45 that blocks transmission via mosquitoes.
    • Key Advantages
      • Dual Benefit: Provides personal protection and reduces community transmission.
      • Full-length CSP: Promotes a stronger and longer immune response compared to current vaccines.
      • High Efficacy in Animals: Over 90% protection in animal models (human trials pending).
      • Stability: Contains alum as an adjuvant — safe, effective, and stable at room temperature for 9 months.

    Malaria Control in India:

    • Progress:
      • Malaria deaths reduced from 1,151 in 1995 to 83 in 2022 (National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme).
      • World Health Organization estimates are higher (5,511 deaths in 2022).
    • Current Limitation: India’s dominant malaria strain is Plasmodium vivax, which AdFalciVax does not target.

     

    [UPSC 2010] Widespread resistance of malarial parasite to drugs like chloroquine has prompted attempts to develop a malarial vaccine to combat malaria. Why is it difficult to develop an effective malaria vaccine ?

    (a) Malaria is caused by several species of Plasmodium*

    (b) Man does not develop, immunity to malaria during natural infection

    (c) Vaccines can be developed only against bacteria

    (d) Man is only an intermediate host not the definitive host.

     

  • Spare live animals, move to biological models

    Why in the News?

    There is growing ethical and scientific concern over the continued use of animal testing in laboratories, as evidence mounts that such methods are often ineffective in predicting human responses. The legal and moral shift in India specifically, an amendment to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, to promote the use of bioartificial models over live animals in experimentation.

    What about the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960?

    The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 is an Indian law enacted to prevent the infliction of unnecessary pain or suffering on animals and to promote their well-being.

    Key features:

    • Prohibits cruelty towards animals such as beating, kicking, overloading, or mutilating them.
    • Establishes the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) to advise the government on animal protection laws and promote animal welfare.
    • Allows for penalties and punishment (fines or imprisonment) for violating its provisions, though critics say these are often outdated and too lenient.

    Why is an amendment to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 legally and morally necessary in India?

    • Outdated Penalties and Definitions: The current Act imposes minimal fines (as low as ₹50), which fail to act as deterrents against cruelty. An amendment is needed to introduce stricter punishments and update definitions to match modern ethical standards.
    • Rising Incidents of Animal Abuse: With growing reports of gruesome cruelty (e.g., dog killings, abuse in labs), there is a need for laws that reflect the moral conscience of today’s society and recognize animal sentience.
    • Global Commitments and Standards: India aspires to be a leader in global bioethics and sustainability. Amending the Act would align national laws with international treaties like the Universal Declaration on Animal Welfare, enhancing India’s moral and legal credibility.

    How can regenerative medicine and tissue engineering reduce animal testing?

    • Development of Human-like Organ Models: Scientists can grow 3D human tissues (like liver, heart, or skin) in the lab, which can be used to test drug toxicity and effectiveness. Eg: The “liver-on-a-chip” developed by Emulate Inc. mimics human liver functions and replaces animal use in drug screening.
    • Personalized Disease Models: Patient-derived stem cells can be used to create tissue models that reflect individual genetic profiles, allowing more accurate predictions of drug reactions without animals. Eg: In cystic fibrosis research, mini lungs (organoids) grown from patient cells are used to test responses to various treatments.
    • Accelerated Drug Development and Safety Testing: Tissue-engineered models provide faster and more ethical platforms for early-stage drug testing, reducing the need for preliminary animal trials. Eg: Skin tissue models like EpiDerm are widely used to test cosmetics and chemicals for irritation and toxicity, replacing rabbit skin tests.

    What limitations exist in using animals for toxicity and medical research?

    • Biological Differences: Animals and humans often respond differently to substances, making results less reliable when applied to humans. Eg: A drug safe in mice might cause severe side effects in humans.
    • Inability to Replicate Human Diseases Accurately: Many complex human diseases like Alzheimer’s or cancer cannot be fully mimicked in animals, leading to incomplete or misleading data. Eg: Alzheimer’s treatments successful in animals have failed in human trials.

    Why is a change in societal values crucial for ensuring animal welfare in scientific practices?

    • Shifting Public Opinion Influences Policy: When society becomes more ethically aware about animal suffering, it puts pressure on governments and institutions to adopt humane research standards and fund alternatives to animal testing.
    • Promotes a Culture of Compassion in Science: Changing values encourage scientists to prioritise non-animal methods and view animal welfare as integral to ethical and responsible research, not just a legal requirement.

    What are the steps taken by the Indian government? 

    • Ban on Animal Testing for Cosmetics: In 2014, India became the first country in Asia to ban animal testing for cosmetic products and ingredients.
    • Promotion of Alternative Methods: The government supports institutions like the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and National Centre for Alternatives to Animal Experiments (NCAAE) to develop in-vitro and computer-based models.
    • Regulatory Reforms: Revisions in Drugs and Cosmetics Rules and CPCSEA guidelines aim to reduce, refine, and replace animal use by encouraging ethical review and stricter compliance protocols.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Investment in Alternatives: Increase funding for regenerative medicine, organoids, and AI-based simulations to provide scalable, ethical, and scientifically advanced testing methods.
    • Enhance Public Awareness and Education: Launch nationwide campaigns to promote animal ethics in science, encouraging academic institutions and industries to adopt humane practices and reduce dependence on animal models.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2017] 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?

    Linkage: The article explicitly advocates for a shift from animal experimentation to methods like tissue engineering or regenerative medicine. Stem cell therapy is a direct application and a significant development within the field of regenerative medicine.