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Subject: Space ProgramsXIntl

  • China Achieves First Controlled Recovery of Reusable Rocket Booster

    Why in News?

    China has successfully conducted its first controlled recovery of an orbital class reusable rocket booster during the maiden launch of the Long March 10B carrier rocket, marking a significant milestone in its reusable space technology.

    Key Highlights

    • Long March 10B successfully placed its payload into the designated orbit.
    • After stage separation, the first stage booster returned safely and was captured on a sea based platform using a net capture system.
    • This marks China’s first successful controlled recovery of an orbital class rocket booster.
    • The achievement follows SpaceX, which became the first to recover an orbital class rocket booster in December 2015.
    • Two previous Chinese attempts at vertical landing in December 2025 had failed.

    What is a Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV)?

    • A launch vehicle designed to recover and reuse some or all of its components after launch.
    • Typically, the first stage booster is recovered since it accounts for a major share of launch costs.
    • Recovery methods include:
      • Vertical landing on land or drone ships (SpaceX).
      • Sea based platform recovery using net capture (Long March 10B).
    • Reusability significantly lowers the cost of access to space.

    Benefits of Reusable Rocket Technology

    • Reduces launch costs through multiple reuse of boosters.
    • Enables higher launch frequency.
    • Improves commercial viability of space missions.
    • Supports deep space exploration and satellite deployment.
    • Reduces manufacturing time and resource consumption.

    China’s Long March Rocket Family

    • Developed by the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT).
    • Serves as China’s primary family of orbital launch vehicles.
    • Used for: Satellite launches. Human spaceflight missions. Lunar and deep space exploration.
    • Long March 10 is being developed for China’s future crewed Moon missions.

    India’s Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) Programme

    • Developed by ISRO.
    • Aims to create a fully reusable space transportation system.
    • Key milestones:
      • RLV-TD (Reusable Launch Vehicle Technology Demonstrator) first flew in 2016.
      • LEX (Landing Experiment) successfully demonstrated autonomous runway landing in 2023.
      • LEX-02 and LEX-03 further validated autonomous landing technologies.
    • Intended to reduce launch costs and improve access to space.

    [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

  • How does the Juno Mission of NASA help to understand the origin and evolution of the Earth?

  • Launched on 25th December, 2021, James Webb Space Telescope has been much in the news since then. What are its unique features which make it superior to its predecessor Space Telescopes? What are the key goals of this mission? What potential benefits does it hold for the human race?

    The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) is a collaboration between NASA, ESA, and CSA. It is the most powerful orbital observatory ever built.

    Positioned at the Second Lagrange Point (L2), 1.5 million km from Earth, it acts as a “time machine,” allowing humanity to peer back over 13.5 billion years to the dawn of the universe.

    Unique Features vs. Predecessors (Hubble & Spitzer)

    Key Goals of the Mission

    First Light: Observe the first stars and galaxies formed after the Big Bang.

    Galaxy Evolution: Study how galaxies formed and changed over time.

    Star & Planet Formation: Examine the birth of stars and planetary systems through cosmic dust.

    Exoplanets & Life: Analyzes exoplanet atmospheres to detect gases like water vapour, methane, and carbon dioxide that may support life.

    Solar System Studies: Investigate planets, moons, and other solar system bodies.

    Infrared Astronomy: Use infrared technology to observe distant and hidden cosmic objects.

    Benefits for the Human Race

    Solving Cosmic Origins: It helps us understand how the carbon and oxygen in our bodies were first synthesized in the first stars.

    Exoplanet Discovery: identifying Earth-like planets (e.g., in the TRAPPIST-1 system).

    Medical Advancements: The technology used to scan JWST’s mirrors has been adapted for LASIK eye surgery, improving precision for human vision correction.

    Cryogenic Engineering: Breakthroughs in JWST’s cooling systems have benefitted industries requiring ultra-cold storage, such as supercomputing.

    The massive data from JWST has accelerated the development of AI and Machine Learning algorithms used in earthly data analysis.

    Informing Climate Models: By studying the atmospheres of other planets, scientists gain a better perspective on the chemical processes driving Earth’s climate change.

    International Cooperation: It serves as a model for peaceful diplomacy, involving over 14 countries and 300 universities working toward a shared human goal.

    Scientific Literacy: The breathtaking images (like the “Pillars of Creation”) inspire millions of students to pursue careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math).

    Refining Physics: By observing the expansion of the universe, it helps resolve the “Hubble Tension,” leading to a more accurate understanding of dark matter and dark energy.

    Thus, The James Webb Space Telescope represents the pinnacle of human ingenuity.

  • India’s Space Odyssey: Prelims Quick Revision

    Why in News?

    The Government highlighted India’s achievements under Space Vision 2047, focusing on self-reliance, commercialization, and human spaceflight.

    Major Missions

    • Chandrayaan-3 (2023): First soft landing near Moon’s south pole; confirmed sulphur.
    • Chandrayaan-4 (2027): Lunar sample return mission.
    • LUPEX (2027-28): ISRO-JAXA mission to explore lunar polar ice.
    • Mangalyaan: First country to reach Mars on maiden attempt.
    • Aditya-L1: India’s first solar observatory at Sun-Earth L1.
    • Venus Orbiter Mission: Planned for 2028.
    • Gaganyaan: India’s first human spaceflight programme.
    • Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS): First module by 2028.

    Space Technology

    • SpaDeX (2025): India became 4th nation to achieve autonomous space docking.
    • NavIC: Indigenous navigation system covering India and 1,500 km beyond.
    • VIKRAM3201: First indigenous 32-bit space microprocessor.
    • RLV-TD: Developing reusable launch vehicle technology.

    Space Economy

    • Space startups: 1 (2014) → 400+ (2026).
    • Space economy: $8 billion, targeted to reach $40-45 billion by 2030.
    • Major reforms: IN-SPACe, NSIL, Indian Space Policy 2023, Liberalised FDI.

    Launch Infrastructure

    • Operational launch vehicles: PSLV, GSLV, LVM3.
    • NGLV under development (30-ton LEO capacity).
    • Second spaceport: Kulasekarapattinam, Tamil Nadu.
    • Third launch pad approved at Sriharikota.

    International Cooperation

    • NISAR: ISRO-NASA
    • TRISHNA: ISRO-CNES
    • LUPEX: ISRO-JAXA
    • Human spaceflight cooperation with ESA and Russia.

    Space Applications

    • Disaster management, Telemedicine, PM e-VIDYA, India-WRIS, Potential Fishing Zone advisories, and Satellite Aided Search and Rescue (SASAR).

  • Fast X-ray Transients (FXTs)

    Why in the news?

    Astronomers from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics have traced the likely origin of a rare Fast X-ray Transient (FXT) event, EP241107a, detected by the Einstein Probe in November 2024.

    Key Findings

    • FXTs are energetic, non-repeating flashes of X-rays lasting from a few minutes to several hours.
    • They are a recently discovered class of transient cosmic events whose origin has remained uncertain.
    • Researchers identified a radio counterpart of FXT EP241107a using the Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array.
    • Follow-up observations were conducted using:
      • Himalayan Chandra Telescope
      • GROWTH India Telescope
      • Upgraded Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope

    Likely Origin

    • The event was probably caused by: Collapse of a massive star leading to a supernova and gamma-ray burst (GRB), or Merger of two neutron stars.
    • Researchers concluded that EP241107a is most likely an “orphan afterglow”:
      • A gamma-ray-burst-like explosion whose gamma rays were not directly detected.
      • Represents a lower-energy member of the GRB population.

    Fast X-ray Transients (FXTs)

    • Sudden flashes of low-energy X-rays.
    • Non-repeating and short-lived.
    • Fade rapidly after detection.
    • Associated with highly energetic cosmic explosions.

    Proposed Sources

    • Core-collapse supernovae.
    • Binary neutron star mergers.
    • Magnetars (highly magnetized neutron stars).
    • Tidal disruption events involving white dwarfs and black holes.
    • Gamma-ray bursts (GRBs).

    Gamma-Ray Bursts (GRBs)

    • Most energetic explosions known in the Universe.
    • Emit intense gamma radiation for a few milliseconds to several minutes.
    • Associated with the collapse of massive stars (Long GRBs) and Neutron star mergers (Short GRBs).
    • Followed by multi-wavelength “afterglows” in X-ray, optical, and radio bands.

    Neutron Star

    • Extremely dense remnant of a massive star after a supernova.
    • Mass ≈ 1.4-2 solar masses compressed into a sphere about 20 km across.
    • Composed mainly of neutrons.

    [2023] Consider the following pairs: Objects in space : Description
    1. Cepheids : Giant clouds of dust and gas in space
    2. Nebulae : Stars which brighten and dim periodically
    3. Pulsars : Neutron stars that are formed when massive stars run out of fuel and collapse
    How many of the above pairs are correctly matched ?

    [A] Only one

    [B] Only two

    [C] All three

    [D] None

  • 12 Years of India’s Scientific Transformation

    Why in the news?

    Union Minister Jitendra Singh highlighted the major achievements of India’s science and technology ecosystem over the last 12 years.

    Bioeconomy Growth

    • India’s bioeconomy expanded from about USD 10 billion (2014) to over USD 190 billion (2026).
    • Target: USD 300 billion by 2030.
    • Growth driven by innovations in Biotechnology, Genomics, Diagnostics, and Biopharmaceuticals.
    • Supported by the BioE3 Policy Framework.

    Space Sector Achievements

    • Space economy grew to around USD 8 billion and is projected to reach USD 45 billion in the next decade.
    • Space startups increased from single digits to over 400.
    • Major milestones: Chandrayaan-3 became the first mission to land near the Moon’s south pole. Gaganyaan preparations underway.
    • Future goals: Bharatiya Antariksh Station by 2035. Indian Moon landing by 2040.

    Weather and Climate Services

    • Weather radars increased from 17 (2014) to nearly 50 operational radars.
    • Another 50 radars planned under Mission Mausam.
    • Forecast coverage expanded from 300 cities to nearly 1,700 locations.
    • Expansion of Lightning detection systems, Rain-monitoring infrastructure, and Nowcast services for short-term forecasts.
    • Mission Mausam: Initiative aimed at strengthening India’s weather forecasting and disaster resilience capabilities through modern observation and prediction systems.

    Biotechnology and Healthcare

    • India emerged as a global biotechnology hub.
    • Advances include Affordable CAR-T cell therapy, Genomics and precision medicine, Next-generation antibiotics, and Indigenous diagnostics and vaccines.
    • India’s COVID-19 vaccines showcased domestic scientific capability.

    CSIR Innovations

    The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) expanded its outreach through:

    • Aroma Mission promoting high-value aromatic crops.
    • Steel slag road technology converting industrial waste into road-building material.
    • Technologies in healthcare, energy, infrastructure, and manufacturing.

    Deep Ocean Technologies

    • Development of Matsya 6000, India’s manned submersible.
    • Development of Varaha, an indigenous deep-sea mining system.

    Major Scientific Initiatives

    • Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF)
    • National Quantum Mission
    • National Supercomputing Mission
    • Research Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund
    • National Geospatial Policy

    Nuclear Energy Reforms

    • Opening of the nuclear energy sector to greater private participation.
    • Expected to boost Investment, Innovation, and Capacity creation.

    [2022] Which one of the following is the context in which the term “qubit” is mentioned?

    [A] Cloud Services

    [B] Quantum Computing

    [C] Visible Light Communication Technologies

    [D] Wireless Communication Technologies

  • Webb Telescope Captures Weather on Exoplanet WASP-94A b

    Why in the news?

    Scientists using the James Webb Space Telescope observed weather patterns on the exoplanet WASP-94A b located nearly 700 light years away from Earth.

    Key Highlights

    • The study was published in the journal Science on May 21, 2026.
    • Scientists detected:
      • Cloud formation
      • Atmospheric circulation
      • Dynamic weather cycles on the exoplanet.
    • The exoplanet studied is:
      • WASP-94A b.

    About WASP-94A b

    • It is a Gas giant exoplanet.
    • Nearly Twice the size of Jupiter.
    • It has about half Jupiter’s mass.
    • Completes one revolution around its star in Four days.

    What are Hot Jupiters?

    • “Hot Jupiters” are Massive gas giant exoplanets orbiting very close to their host stars.
    • Characteristics:
      • Extremely high temperatures
      • Tidally locked rotation
      • One side permanently facing the star.

    Tidally Locked Planets

    A tidally locked planet has:

    • Rotation period equal to revolution period.
    • As a result:
      • One side remains permanently day side.
      • The other side remains permanently night side.

    Weather on WASP-94A b

    Scientists observed:

    • Morning side: Clouds of magnesium silicate, iron and magnesium sulphide.
    • Evening side: Relatively clear skies.

    Clouds form on the cooler night side and move towards the hotter day side through powerful winds before dissipating.

    How Were the Atmospheres Studied?

    Scientists used:

    • Spectroscopy
    • Transit method

    Spectroscopy

    • Light from the host star is split into wavelengths.
    • Atmospheric gases absorb specific wavelengths.
    • This helps identify chemical compounds present in the atmosphere.

    Transit Method

    • The exoplanet passes in front of its host star.
    • The atmosphere absorbs part of the starlight.
    • Scientists analyse these changes to study atmospheric composition.

    About the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST)

    • Launched: December 2021.
    • Joint project of:
      • NASA
      • ESA
      • CSA.
    • Purpose:
      • Study the early universe
      • Exoplanets
      • Infrared astronomy.

    About Extremely Large Telescope (ELT)

    • Being built by the European Southern Observatory.
    • Location: Northern Chile.
    • Importance: May help discover more Earth like exoplanets and planetary systems.

    [2017] What is the purpose of ‘evolved Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (eLISA)’ project?

    [A] To detect neutrinos

    [B] To detect gravitational waves

    [C] To detect the effectiveness of missile defence system

    [D] To study the effect of solar flares on our communication systems

  • What is the Galileo Project which has been in news recently

    What is the Galileo Project which has been in news recently?

  • Selene-1, the lunar orbiter mission, belongs to which one of the following

    Selene-1, the lunar orbiter mission, belongs to which one of the following?

  • Which one of the following is a spacecraft

    Which one of the following is a spacecraft?