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Subject: Space Technology

  • SpaceX Falcon 9 upper stage set to strike the Moon, exposing gaps in space law

    Why in the News

    A spent SpaceX Falcon 9 upper stage is expected to impact the Einstein Crater on the Moon on 5 August 2026. The event provides a rare scientific opportunity while highlighting gaps in international laws governing lunar activities and space debris.

    What is the Outer Space Treaty?

    • The Outer Space Treaty (1967) is the foundation of international space law.
    • Governs activities in outer space, including the Moon and other celestial bodies.
    • Prohibits national sovereignty claims over outer space (Article II).
    • Requires exploration for the benefit of all countries and peaceful purposes.

    What is a Controlled Source Impact?

    • An impact where the mass, speed, and trajectory of the object are known beforehand.
    • Helps scientists accurately study:
      • Crater formation.
      • Lunar dust (ejecta) behaviour.
      • Surface composition.

    What is ATLAC?

    • Action Team on Lunar Activity Consultation (ATLAC) is a United Nations (UN) working group.
    • Works on developing norms for: Lunar landing coordination, Lunar dust mitigation, and Space debris management.

    Why is the Impact Significant?

    • Rare opportunity to study the Moon through a known artificial impact.
    • Improves understanding of lunar dust, crucial for future lunar missions and habitats.
    • Similar to NASA’s Lunar Crater Observation and Sensing Satellite (LCROSS) Mission (2009), which confirmed the presence of water ice.

    Challenges

    • No treaty specifically regulates lunar debris or spent rocket stages.
    • No legal protection for lunar heritage sites (e.g., Shiv Shakti Point).
    • Increasing commercial and national missions raise collision risks.
    • Slow consensus-based UN rule-making.

    Chandrayaan-3

    • Launched by: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in 2023.
    • Achievement: First soft landing near the Moon’s south pole; India became the 4th country to achieve a soft landing on the Moon.
    • Shiv Shakti Point: Name of the Vikram lander’s landing site.
    • Components: Vikram Lander and Pragyan Rover.

    [2009] India has recently landed its Moon Impact Probe (MIP) on the Moon. Among the following countries, which one landed such probe on the Moon earlier?

    (a) Australia

    (b) Canada

    (c) China

    (d) Japan.

  • ISRO’s NavIC System Can No Longer Provide Standalone Navigation Services

    Why in the News?

    For the first time, the Government has admitted in Parliament that India’s NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation) cannot currently provide standalone positioning services, as only 3 operational satellites are available for navigation, while at least 4 satellites are required.

    What is the issue?

    • IRNSS-1F, launched in March 2016, completed its mission life and its onboard atomic clock failed, reducing the operational navigation satellites.
    • At present, only IRNSS-1B, IRNSS-1I, and NVS-01 are providing Positioning, Navigation and Timing (PNT) services.
    • As a result, NavIC cannot independently provide positioning services, though its timing service remains functional.

    What is NavIC?

    • NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation) is India’s regional satellite navigation system, developed by ISRO under the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS).
    • It provides Positioning, Navigation and Timing (PNT) services over:
      • India, and
      • up to 1,500 km beyond its borders.
    • The original constellation was designed with 7 satellites.

    Why are four satellites necessary?

    • A navigation receiver determines its position through trilateration.
    • At least 4 satellites are required to accurately calculate Latitude, Longitude, Altitude, and Time correction
    • Without four operational satellites, standalone navigation becomes unreliable.

    Does this affect users?

    • No major impact on most users.
    • Smartphones, aircraft, ships and vehicles use multi-constellation GNSS receivers, combining signals from GPS (USA), Galileo (European Union), GLONASS (Russia), BeiDou (China), and NavIC (India)
    • Hence, navigation services continue without significant disruption.

    Current status

    • Standalone positioning: Not available.
    • Timing service: Functional.
    • Emergency message broadcasting: Functional.
    • Armed Forces: Continue using NavIC as part of a multi-constellation GNSS framework.

    Future roadmap

    • NVS-03 is ready for launch.
    • NVS-04 and NVS-05 are in advanced stages of development.
    • These satellites are expected to restore NavIC’s independent navigation capability.

    Significance of NavIC

    • Enhances strategic autonomy by reducing dependence on foreign navigation systems.
    • Supports: Defence operations, Disaster management, Maritime navigation, Aviation, Railways, Road transport, Precision agriculture, and Surveying and mapping
    • Provides secure and reliable navigation during emergencies or geopolitical conflicts.

    [2023] Which one of the following countries has its own Satellite Navigation System?

    [A] Australia

    [B] Canada

    [C] Israel

    [D] Japan

  • Vikram-1 to Carry Six Payloads in Maiden Orbital Mission

    Why in News?

    Skyroot Aerospace announced that its Vikram-1, India’s first privately developed orbital-class launch vehicle, will carry six payloads during its maiden mission, Mission Aagaman, expected between July 12 and August 4, 2026.

    Key Highlights

    • Vikram-1 is India’s first privately built orbital-class rocket.
    • It will carry six payloads, including technology demonstrations and cultural artefacts.
    • Technology payloads include:
      • SOLARAS nano-satellite (Grahaa Space)
      • SCOPE (Skyroot Aerospace)
      • Embrace robotic arm (Cosmoserve Space) for space debris capture technology
      • One international payload from Dcubed GmbH (Germany).
    • Cultural payloads:
      • Cosmic Bloom: Diamond jewellery mounted on an aluminium plate.
      • Microart: An 18K gold rocket featuring micro-sculptures of Sir C.V. Raman, Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, and Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.

    Significance

    • Marks a major milestone for India’s private space sector.
    • Demonstrates indigenous launch capability for commercial and technology missions.
    • Supports innovation in satellite technologies and space debris removal.

    Orbital-class Launch Vehicle

    • A rocket capable of placing satellites into Earth’s orbit, unlike sub-orbital rockets that follow a ballistic trajectory without completing an orbit.

    [2026] Consider the following statements with regard to involvement of private entities in India’s space programme :
    1. The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) is an autonomous agency formed to facilitate participation of private entities.
    2. Agnikul Cosmos launched the world’s first flight using 3D-printed rocket engine.
    3. Skyroot Aerospace has developed liquid fuel for GSLV.
    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    [A] 1 only

    [B] 2 and 3 only

    [C] 1 and 2 only

    [D] 1, 2 and 3

  • India’s First Privately Developed Orbital-Class Rocket Vikram-1 Set for Launch

    Why in News?

    India’s first privately developed orbital-class launch vehicle, Vikram-1, developed by Skyroot Aerospace, is scheduled for its maiden mission, Mission Aagaman, with a launch window from 12 July to 4 August 2026 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.

    What is Mission Aagaman?

    • Mission Aagaman (“Arrival”) is the first orbital test flight of Vikram-1.
    • It follows the successful launch of Vikram-S, India’s first private suborbital rocket (18 November 2022).
    • It is a partially commercial mission carrying payloads from domestic and international customers.
    • The mission aims to validate critical flight systems before full commercial operations.

    About Vikram-1

    • India’s first privately developed orbital-class launch vehicle.
    • Developed by Skyroot Aerospace, Hyderabad.
    • Height: About 24 metres (seven-storey tall).
    • Configuration: Multi-stage launch vehicle.
    • Payload Capacity: Up to 350 kg to Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
    • Target Orbit: 450 km altitude with 60° orbital inclination.
    • Built using an all-carbon composite structure for lightweight construction.
    • Powered by:
      • High-thrust solid rocket boosters.
      • In-house liquid propulsion systems.
      • 3D-printed rocket engines, enabling faster and cost-effective manufacturing.
    • Designed for rapid manufacturing and high launch frequency.

    Objectives of the Maiden Flight

    • Validate: Propulsion systems. Stage separation. Guidance, Navigation and Control (GNC). Overall vehicle performance.
    • Collect real-time in-flight data that cannot be fully simulated during ground testing.
    • Lay the foundation for high-cadence commercial satellite launches.

    [2026] Consider the following statements with regard to involvement of private entities in India’s space programme :
    1. The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) is an autonomous agency formed to facilitate participation of private entities.
    2. Agnikul Cosmos launched the world’s first flight using 3D-printed rocket engine.
    3. Skyroot Aerospace has developed liquid fuel for GSLV.
    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    [A] 1 only

    [B] 2 and 3 only

    [C] 1 and 2 only

    [D] 1, 2 and 3

  • India’s First PinS Instrument Approach Procedure for Helicopter Operations

    Why in News?

    India has approved its first Private Point in Space (PinS) Instrument Approach Procedure for helicopter operations at Undavalli Heliport (Andhra Pradesh). The procedure was developed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and approved by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

    What is PinS (Point in Space)?

    • A satellite based instrument approach procedure designed specifically for helicopters.
    • Enables helicopters to fly safely under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) even when heliports lack conventional landing systems.
    • Uses GNSS/GAGAN enabled Performance Based Navigation (PBN) instead of ground based navigation aids.
    • Developed according to ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs).

    How does PinS work?

    • Guides helicopters to a predefined Point in Space (PinS) using satellite navigation.
    • From the PinS point, the helicopter either lands visually if weather permits, or continues under instrument guidance where applicable.
    • Improves operations during poor visibility, rain, fog and difficult terrain.

    Significance

    • Enhances aviation safety and operational reliability.
    • Enables all weather helicopter connectivity.
    • Improves access to remote, hilly and strategically important locations.
    • Reduces dependence on expensive ground based navigation infrastructure.
    • Supports: Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Disaster relief operations, Char Dham and other pilgrimage services, Tourism, Offshore oil and gas operations, Corporate aviation, and Regional connectivity under UDAN.

    Instrument Flight Rules (IFR)

    • Flight operations conducted primarily using cockpit instruments rather than visual references.
    • Essential during poor weather and low visibility.

    Performance Based Navigation (PBN)

    • Navigation based on aircraft performance standards using satellite navigation.
    • Improves route efficiency, safety and fuel savings.

    GAGAN (GPS Aided GEO Augmented Navigation)

    • India’s Satellite Based Augmentation System (SBAS).
    • Developed jointly by ISRO and AAI.
    • Enhances the accuracy and integrity of GPS signals for civil aviation.

    [2025] GPS-Aided Geo Augmented Navigation (GAGAN) uses a system of ground stations to provide necessary augmentation. Which of the following statements is/are correct in respect of GAGAN?
    I. It is designed to provide additional accuracy and integrity.
    II. It will allow more uniform and high quality air traffic management.
    III. It will provide benefits only in aviation but not in other modes of transportation.
    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    [A] I, II and III

    [B] II and III only

    [C] I only

    [D] I and II only

  • 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).

  • GRAPES-3: A Cosmic-Ray Tracker

    Why in the news?

    Researchers from India and Japan used the Gamma Ray Astronomy PeV EnergieS phase-3 (GRAPES-3) telescope to analyse 22 years of muon data, enabling real-time monitoring of changes in the Earth’s upper atmosphere.

    What is GRAPES-3?

    • GRAPES-3 (Gamma Ray Astronomy PeV EnergieS phase-3) is a muon telescope and cosmic-ray observatory located at Ooty, Tamil Nadu.
    • It detects muons, rather than visible light.
    • It is designed to study Cosmic rays, Solar magnetic fields, Space weather, and Atmospheric processes.

    What are Muons?

    • Muons are high-energy subatomic particles produced when cosmic rays collide with atoms in the Earth’s upper atmosphere.
    • They can penetrate deep into the Earth’s surface due to their high energy.

    How does GRAPES-3 Work?

    • Comprises 16 detector modules.
    • Each module contains 232 proportional counters filled with argon-methane gas and a tungsten wire.
    • Passing muons generate electrical pulses, recorded as “hits.”
    • Four layers of detectors arranged at right angles help determine the trajectory and angle of incoming muons.
    • Reinforced concrete layers filter out low-energy particles, allowing only high-energy muons to be detected.

    Significance

    • Enables real-time monitoring of upper atmospheric temperature changes.
    • Helps study the Sun’s magnetic field and space weather.
    • Improves understanding of cosmic-ray interactions with Earth’s atmosphere.
    • Contributes to research in astroparticle physics and atmospheric science.

    Value Addition

    • Cosmic Rays: High-energy charged particles originating from outer space.
    • Space Weather: Variations in the space environment caused by solar activity that can affect satellites, communication systems, and power grids.

    [2017] The terms ‘Event Horizon’, ‘Singularity’, ‘String Theory’ and ‘Standard Model’ are sometimes seen in the news in the context of

    [A] Observation and understanding of the Universe

    [B] Study of the solar and the lunar eclipses

    [C] Placing satellites in the orbit of the Earth

    [D] Origin and evolution of living organisms on the earth

  • 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

  • India’s Space Economy Poised to Reach USD 45 Billion

    Why in the news?

    Union Minister Jitendra Singh stated that India’s space economy is expected to grow from USD 8-9 billion to USD 40-45 billion over the next decade, driven by policy reforms, private participation, and innovation.

    Key Highlights

    • India’s space economy is projected to reach USD 40-45 billion in the next decade.
    • The country currently has over 400 space startups, compared to only a handful a few years ago.
    • More than 125 startups and technology innovators participated in the RISE Conclave 2026.

    Factors Driving Growth

    • Liberalisation and reforms in the space sector.
    • Increasing private sector participation.
    • Expansion of the startup ecosystem.
    • Collaboration among industry, academia, and research institutions.
    • Focus on innovation-led growth under the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

    India’s Space Achievements

    • Chandrayaan-3 established India among leading space-faring nations.
    • Gaganyaan is India’s upcoming human space mission.
    • India has demonstrated cost-effective execution of complex missions, including the Mars Orbiter Mission.

    Space Technology in Governance

    India is increasingly using space applications for development through:

    • PM Gati Shakti for integrated infrastructure planning.
    • Urban development programmes.
    • Drone-enabled monitoring systems.
    • Project implementation and monitoring.
    • Improved transparency and efficiency in service delivery.

    PSLV Mission Anomaly

    • The analysis of the recent Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) anomaly has been completed.
    • Causes have been identified.
    • Corrective measures have been initiated for future missions.

    RISE Conclave 2026

    • Theme: “Innovation & Entrepreneurship Driven Growth for Viksit Bharat 2047.”
    • Brought together researchers, startups, investors, industry leaders, and policymakers.
    • Showcased innovations in Aerospace technologies, Artificial Intelligence, Deep-tech, and Agri-food technologies.

    [2025] GPS-Aided Geo Augmented Navigation (GAGAN) uses a system of ground stations to provide necessary augmentation. Which of the following statements is/are correct in respect of GAGAN?
    I. It is designed to provide additional accuracy and integrity.
    II. It will allow more uniform and high quality air traffic management.
    III. It will provide benefits only in aviation but not in other modes of transportation.
    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    [A] I, II and III

    [B] II and III only

    [C] I only

    [D] I and II only

  • 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