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Subject: Space Technology

  • 125 years of Kodaikanal Solar Observatory

    Why in the news?

    This year marks 125th Year of the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (KoSO).

    About Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (KoSO)

    • The idea for an Indian solar observatory emerged in the late 19th century, with then government sanctioning the establishment of the Solar Physics Observatory in Kodaikanal in August 1893.
    • Kodaikanal in the Palani hills of Tamil Nadu was chosen as the site for the observatory due to its favorable atmospheric conditions, following surveys conducted by Charles Michie Smith.
    • The foundation stone for KoSO was laid by Lord Wenlock, the then Governor of Madras, in 1895.
    • Systematic observations at KoSO began on March 14, 1901.
    • KoSO initially housed instruments for solar observations, including telescopes for examining sunspots, prominences, and solar radiations.
    • Presently, KoSO houses advanced instruments like the H-alpha telescope and the White light Active Region Monitor (WARM) for high-resolution solar imaging.

    Do you know?

    • The Bhavnagar Telescope, named after the Maharaja of Bhavnagar, was one of the more famous instruments at KoSO during the early decades of its operation.
    • A 15cm telescope was used to capture solar images onto a photographic film or plate.
    • Solar magnetic plages and prominences were recorded since 1911, taken on photographic films and plates.

    Historical Perspective

    • Ancient Legacy: Throughout history, seafarers, mathematicians, astronomers, and physicists have meticulously studied the Sun and its celestial phenomena.
    • British Era Initiatives: In 1792, the British East India Company established the pioneering Madras Observatory, marking a significant milestone in astronomical research in the region.
    • Madras Observatory’s Legacy: The Madras Observatory documented crucial astronomical observations during 1812-1825, laying the groundwork for solar research in India.
    • Shift to Systematic Observations: Dedicated solar observations commenced in 1878, fostering a deeper understanding of solar phenomena.
    • Advancements in Methodology: The adoption of systematic observational techniques paved the way for more comprehensive and detailed studies of the Sun’s behavior.

    Need for such Observatory

    • Great Drought of 1875-1877: This event triggered by scanty rainfall, propelled the need for comprehensive solar studies to comprehend its implications on weather patterns.
    • India’s Geographical Significance: India’s drought was part of a larger global phenomenon, affecting several countries and leading to widespread famine.
    • Scientific Inquiry: Scientists recognized the potential role of solar variability in influencing climatic patterns, prompting inquiries into the Sun’s behavior and its correlation with environmental phenomena.

    Scientific Endeavors of KoSO

    • The observatory made significant contributions to solar physics, including the discovery of the radial motion of sunspots, known as the Evershed Effect.
    • Over time, KoSO expanded its research areas beyond solar physics to include cosmic rays, radio astronomy, ionospheric physics, and stellar physics.
    • In April 1971, KoSO was brought under the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bengaluru, as part of the separation of astrophysics from the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

    Repository of the KoSO

    • Between 1904 and 2017, all solar observations were traced onto photographic films and plates
    • A new telescope mounted with CCD cameras has taken over and, since 2017, continued to observe the Sun.
    • Digitization of the records was initiated in 1984 by Prof J C Bhattacharyya, and others continued the effort.
    • KoSO is now home to a digital repository of a whopping 1.48 lakh solar images adding up to 10 terabyte of data.
    • These include 33,500 white-light images (showing sunspots), 45,000 images of the Ca II K spectral line (which reveals plages), and 70,000 H-alpha photographic plates that show prominences.

    PYQ:

    2019:

    On 21st June, the Sun-

    (a) does not set below the horizon at the Arctic Circle

    (b) does not set below the horizon at Antarctic Circle

    (c) shines vertically overhead at noon on the Equator

    (d) shines vertically overhead at the Tropic of Capricorn

     

    Practice MCQ:

    Which of the following statements correctly describes the ‘Evershed Effect’ in Sun?

    (a) It refers to the bending of light waves around obstacles, demonstrated by the diffraction pattern observed in a single-slit experiment.

    (b) It is the phenomenon of a magnetic field being generated by the motion of charged particles in the convective zone of the Sun.

    (c) It describes the deflection of moving charged particles, such as electrons, in a magnetic field, leading to the creation of an electric potential difference.

    (d) It is the radial flow of gases in the Sun’s outer atmosphere, observed as a redshift in the spectrum of light emitted by the photosphere.

  • Ozone found on Jupiter’s moon Callisto

    Why in the news?

    PRL Ahmedabad researchers has uncovered evidence of ozone presence on Jupiter’s moon Callisto, offering profound insights into celestial chemical processes.

    About Jupiter and its Moons

    Description
    Discovery Known since ancient times;

    Galileo Galilei observed Jupiter and its moons through a telescope in 1610
    Composition Mostly composed of hydrogen and helium, with traces of other gases such as ammonia, methane, and water vapor
    Diameter 139,822 kilometers
    Mass 1.898 × 10^27 kilograms (317.8 Earth masses)
    Orbital Period Approximately 11.86 Earth years
    Average Distance from Sun Approximately 778 million kilometers
    Surface Temperature Approximately -145°C (-234°F)
    Magnetic Field Strong magnetic field, the strongest in the solar system
    Moons Jupiter has 79 known moons, including the four largest Galilean moons: Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto.

    Other notable moons include Amalthea, Himalia, Elara, Leda, Thebe, Metis, Adrastea, and more.

    The moons vary significantly in size, composition, and orbital characteristics.
    Great Red Spot Enormous storm system, known to exist for at least 400 years
    Exploration Explored by spacecraft such as Pioneer, Voyager, Galileo, Juno, and more

    Callisto and its Unique Environment

    • Composition: Callisto’s predominantly icy surface, interspersed with rocky materials, sulphur dioxide, and organic compounds, positions it as a compelling candidate for extraterrestrial life exploration.
    • Geological Stability: Despite extensive cratering, Callisto’s surface exhibits geological inactivity, suggesting long-term stability conducive to preserving subsurface oceans or potential habitats.

    Significance of Ozone Findings

    • Life-Sustaining Component: Ozone, a molecule composed of three oxygen atoms, plays a vital role in shielding celestial bodies from harmful ultraviolet radiation, fostering conditions conducive to life.
    • Earthly Parallel: Just as the Earth’s ozone layer protects against harmful UV radiation, the presence of ozone on Callisto hints at stable atmospheric conditions and potential habitability, sparking scientific intrigue.

    PYQ:

    What is the difference between asteroids and comets?

    1.    Asteroids are small rocky planetoids, while comets are made of ice, dust and rocky material.

    2.    Asteroids are found mostly between the orbits of Jupiter and Mars, while comets are found mostly between Venus and Mercury.

    3.    Comets show a perceptible glowing tail, while asteroids do not.

    Which of the statements given above is/ are correct? (2011)

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 1 and 3 only

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • ISRO’s NICES Programme Combatting Climate Change

    Why in the news?

    The National Information System for Climate and Environment Studies (NICES) Program has extended invitations to Indian researchers to contribute to climate change mitigation efforts.

    What is NICES Program?

    • The NICES Programme is operated by the ISRO and the Department of Space.
    • It was launched in 2012.
    • It operates within the framework of the National Action Plan on Climate Change.
    • NICES aims to enhance the participation of Indian researchers in addressing climate change-related challenges through multidisciplinary scientific investigations.
    • Focus Areas: Potential areas for project submission include Space-based Essential Climate Variables (ECVs) and Climate Indicators, Climate Change Challenges, Weather Extremes, and Climate Services.

    Activities held under NICES Program

    • NICES invites project proposals from Indian scientists, academicians, and researchers affiliated with various governmental organizations, recognized institutions, universities, and departments.
    • Project proposals should address climate change-related challenges.
    • These projects are expected be completed within 3 years from the date of sanction.

    Objective and Functionality

    • The primary objective of the NICES Programme is to generate and disseminate long-term Essential Climate Variables (ECVs) derived from Indian and other Earth Observation (EO) satellites.
    • These variables, spanning terrestrial, oceanic, and atmospheric domains, are crucial for characterizing Earth’s climate and monitoring changes over time.

    Achievements and Impact:

    • Since its inception in 2012, NICES has developed over 70 geophysical products meeting stringent quality standards.
    • These products have been instrumental in documenting climate change and its impacts, contributing to scientific understanding and evidence-based decision-making.

    PYQ:

    2021: Describe the major outcomes of the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). What are the commitments made by India in this conference?

     

    Practice MCQ:

    The NICES Program is an initiative of:

    (a) Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)

    (b) Indian Meteorological Department (IMD)

    (c) Department of Science and Technology (DST)

    (d) None of the above.

  • Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO) discovers 5000th Comet

    Why in the news?

    A Czech citizen has spotted a comet in an image from the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO) spacecraft, which has now been confirmed to be the 5,000th comet discovered using SOHO data.

    Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO)

    • The SOHO is a spacecraft jointly operated by the European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA.
    • Launched in December 1995, its primary mission is to study the Sun, particularly its outer atmosphere, known as the corona, and the solar wind.
    • SOHO observes the Sun in various wavelengths of light, enabling scientists to study phenomena such as sunspots, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections.
    • SOHO orbits the Sun at Lagrange Point L1, about 1.5 million kilometers (nearly 1 million miles) from Earth, providing an uninterrupted view of the Sun.
    • Its observations have led to discoveries such as-
    1. Identifying the source regions of solar wind,
    2. Tracking solar eruptions, and
    3. Monitoring changes in the Sun’s activity over its 11-year solar cycle.

     

    What are Lagrange Points?

    • Lagrange Points are named after the French mathematician Joseph-Louis Lagrange who discovered them in 1772.
    • They are specific points in space where the gravitational forces of two large bodies, such as the Earth and the Sun, or the Earth and the Moon, balance the centrifugal force felt by a smaller body.
    • These points are stable locations where objects can maintain their relative positions concerning the larger bodies, without drifting away or falling towards them.

    There are five Lagrange Points, denoted as L1, L2, L3, L4, and L5:

    1. L1: Located on the line connecting the two large bodies and closer to the smaller body, L1 is particularly useful for space observatories like the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO) because it provides an unobstructed view of the Sun from Earth’s perspective.
    2. L2: Situated on the opposite side of the smaller body from the larger one, L2 is an excellent location for deep space observatories such as the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) because it remains relatively shielded from solar interference.
    3. L3: Located on the line connecting the two large bodies but on the opposite side of the larger body from the smaller one, L3 is less stable and less frequently used than the other Lagrange Points.
    4. L4 and L5: These points form equilateral triangles with the two large bodies, with the smaller body at the third vertex. L4 precedes the smaller body in its orbit, while L5 follows it. These points are stable and have been found to accumulate natural objects, such as asteroids, known as Trojan asteroids.

     

    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

     

    Practice MCQ:

    Regarding the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO), consider the following statement:

    1.    SOHO spacecraft was launched in December 1995.

    2.    It is jointly operated by the European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA.

    3.    It orbits the Earth in sun-synchronous orbit.

    How many of the above statements is/are correct?

    a)    One

    b)    Two

    c)    Three

    d)    None

  • Krishi Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC)

    Why in the news?

    Agriculture Minister has recently inaugurated the Krishi Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) at Krishi Bhavan in New Delhi.

    What is Krishi ICCC?

    • The ICCC incorporates multiple IT applications and platforms to provide actionable insights and aid informed decision-making.
    • 8 large LED screens display crucial information such as crop yields, production, drought situation, cropping patterns, and relevant trends in graphical format.
    • The dashboard offers insights, alerts, and feedback on agriculture schemes, programs, projects, and initiatives, empowering stakeholders with comprehensive information.

    Data used by Krishi ICCC

    The ICCC will enable comprehensive monitoring of the farm sector by making available at one place geospatial information received from multiple sources such as:

    1. Plot-level data received through Soil Survey;
    2. Weather data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD);
    3. Sowing data from Digital Crop Survey;
    4. Farmer- and farm-related data from Krishi MApper, an application for geo-fencing and geo-tagging of land;
    5. Market intelligence information from the Unified Portal for Agricultural Statistics (UPAg); and
    6. Yield estimation data from the General Crop Estimation Survey (GCES).

    Objectives and Functionality

    • Comprehensive Monitoring: The ICCC aims to enable comprehensive monitoring of the farm sector by consolidating geospatial information from various sources, including remote sensing, weather data, soil surveys, and market intelligence.
    • Decision Support: Integrated visualization facilitates quick and efficient decision-making by policymakers and stakeholders, supported by real-time data and analysis.

    Farmer-Specific Advisories and Practical Applications

    • Individual Farmer Advisories: The ICCC has the potential to generate individual farmer-specific advisories through apps like Kisan e-Mitra (a chatbot developed for PM-Kisan beneficiaries), leveraging AI and machine learning to customize recommendations based on farmer data.

    Practical Applications:

      1. Farmer’s Advisory: Visualizations of GIS-based soil mapping, soil health card data, and weather-related information enable customized advisories on crop selection and agricultural practices.
      2. Drought Actions: Correlation of yield data with weather patterns allows proactive measures to mitigate the impact of droughts.
      3. Crop Diversification: Analysis of crop diversification maps helps identify regions suitable for diversified cropping, optimizing agricultural productivity.
      4. Farm Data Repository: The Krishi Decision Support System (K-DSS) acts as an agriculture data repository, facilitating evidence-based decision-making and the preparation of customized advisories for farmers.
      5. Validation of Yield: The ICCC enables the validation of yield data captured through different applications, ensuring accuracy and reliability.

     

    PYQ:

    2018: With reference to the ‘Global Alliance for Climate-Smart Agriculture (CACSA)’, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. GACSA is an outcome of the Climate Summit held in Paris in 2015.
    2. Membership of GACSA does not create any binding obligations.
    3. India was instrumental in the creation of GACSA.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    1. 1 and 3 only
    2. 2 only
    3. 2 and 3 only
    4. 1, 2 and 3

     

    Practice MCQ:

    What is the primary objective of the Krishi ICCC (Integrated Command and Control Centre)?

    1. To provide real-time market prices of agricultural products.
    2. To consolidate geospatial information from various sources for comprehensive monitoring of the farm sector.
    3. To offer financial support to farmers through direct benefit transfer schemes.
    4. To facilitate the construction of irrigation projects in rural areas.

  • IAU approves ‘Statio Shiv Shakti’ as name for Chandrayaan-3 Landing Site

    What is the news?

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

    About International Astronomical Union (IAU)

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

    Major Activities and Initiatives

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

    Membership

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

    IAU Nomenclature  Criteria

     

    • Rule 4: It emphasizes the international nature of solar system nomenclature and encourages equitable representation of names from diverse ethnic groups, countries, and genders.
    • Rule 9: The IAU adheres to Rule 9, prohibiting names with political, military, or religious connotations, except for historical political figures prior to the 19th century.
    • Rule 11: It emphasizes that names should be unique within the context of celestial nomenclature to prevent confusion.

    About Statio Shiv Shakti’

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

    PM previously named the Chandrayaan-2 crash site ‘Tiranga point’, while former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam suggested ‘Jawahar Point’ for the Chandrayaan-1 impact probe landing site, reflecting a tradition of honoring national figures and symbols.

     

    PYQ:

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

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

     

    Practice MCQ:

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

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

    Which of the given statements are correct?

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

  • ISRO successfully conducts ‘Pushpak’ Reusable Landing Vehicle Landing

    What is the news?

    • The ISRO has conducted the Pushpak Reusable Landing Vehicle (RLV) LEX 02 landing experiment at the Aeronautical Test Range in Chitradurga. It was lifted by an Indian Air Force Chinook helicopter and released from an altitude of 4.5 km.
    • This experiment marks a significant milestone in ISRO’s pursuit of reusable space technology.

    About Pushpak Reusable Landing Vehicle (RLV)

    • The Pushpak RLV is a winged vehicle, equipped with aerodynamic surfaces that enable controlled flight during re-entry into the Earth’s atmosphere.
    • The RLV is designed to autonomously land on a designated runway after completing its mission in space, thereby demonstrating India’s capability in autonomous space vehicle landing.
    • It is equipped with sophisticated navigation, control, and landing gear systems that allow it to autonomously navigate and land on a predefined runway.

    Key Features

    1. The RLV is a space plane with a low lift-to-drag ratio, requiring an approach at high glide angles that necessitates landing at high velocities of 350 km/h.
    2. This design allows it to transport payloads to Low Earth orbits and return to Earth for future use.

    Future Prospects

    • Iterative Testing: ISRO conducts a series of experiments, such as the RLV LEX 02 landing experiment, to test and validate the performance of the RLV in various scenarios.
    • Orbital Re-entry Missions: The successful demonstration of the Pushpak RLV’s capabilities paves the way for future orbital re-entry missions, where reusable vehicles can be deployed for various scientific and commercial purposes.

    PYQ:

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

    1. PSLVs launch the 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 l vehicle with the first and third stages l using solid rocket motors; and the second and fourth stages using liquid rocket engines.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    1. 1 only
    2. 2 and 3
    3. 1 and 2
    4. 3 only

     

    Practice MCQ:

    Consider the following statements about the ‘Pushpak’ Reusable Landing Vehicle (RLV):

    1. It is a winged vehicle.
    2. It can transport payloads to Low Earth orbits and return to Earth with the help of a parachute.

    Which of the given statements are correct?

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

  • Changing cancer nomenclature can improve treatment outcomes: doctors 

    Why in the news? 

    Physicians have expressed the necessity to categorize Cancers based on their genetic characteristics.

    Context:

    • An updated classification system could aid patients in comprehending the reasoning behind their treatment.
    • While two individuals may share the same type of cancer, their therapies could vary due to differences in the biological mechanisms driving their tumors.

    What motivates the need for change?

    •  Not limited to cancers of a single organ: With technological improvements, doctors are also able to find which genetic mutations are responsible for a tumor in many cases and target them with drugs.
      • All cancers from the same organ don’t always share the same mutations, and these mutations aren’t limited to cancers of a single organ
    • Access life-saving drugs sooner: This development in precision oncology requires cancers to be classified based on their molecular and genetic characteristics rather than the organ in which they originate, a team of researchers from France has written in a paper.
      • This way, according to them, cancer patients can also access life-saving drugs sooner. Oncologists spend a lot of time testing new drugs in clinical trials in a sequential manner, leading to “delay in treatment access”.

    Has sequential testing caused delays? 

      • A 2012 clinical trial conducted in the U.S. explored the efficacy of the drug nivolumab across various cancer types, including melanoma and kidney cancer. Nivolumab targets a specific protein receptor found in certain tumors, and it showed promising results by alleviating symptoms in individuals with tumors expressing this protein
    • Challenges Due to Traditional Organ-Based Classification-
      • Hindered by the traditional classification-Despite promising outcomes, the next logical step of testing nivolumab in individuals with tumors expressing the protein, regardless of cancer origin, was hindered by the traditional classification of cancers based on their organ of origin (e.g., breast, kidney, lung).
      • Multiple trials needed: As a consequence, researchers were compelled to conduct separate trials for each type of cancer, leading to significant delays in drug accessibility for patients with tumors expressing the targeted protein.
      • Time taking trails: Each trial requires substantial time and resources, from recruitment to data analysis, prolonging the process of drug approval and availability for specific cancer subtypes.

    Significance of categorizing cancers based on their genetic characteristics-

    • Faster drug development and availability: By targeting specific genetic mutations rather than specific cancer types, clinical trials for drugs can encompass all cancer types with those mutations. This approach potentially expedites the trial process, leading to faster drug development and availability.
    • Reduces confusion among the patient: The revamped classification system not only accelerates clinical trial timelines but also enhances patient understanding of treatment rationale. Patients often receive different therapies for the same cancer due to diverse underlying biological mechanisms. Aligning cancer names with biological mechanisms reduces confusion and helps patients comprehend the reasoning behind their treatment plans.
    • Personalized treatment: Physicians, including Dr. Jobanputra, emphasize the importance of educating patients about the molecular characteristics of their cancers. As the approach to cancer treatment becomes more personalized, understanding these molecular aspects becomes crucial as they directly impact prognosis and treatment costs.
    • Reducing the timing in trial-naming cancers based on their biological characteristics rather than their anatomical origin can significantly reduce the time required to conduct clinical trials. This shift eliminates the need for separate trials for each cancer type defined by organ of origin, streamlining the research process

    Challenges in Implementing the Proposed Cancer Classification Change:

    • Limited Access to Genetic Testing: The accessibility and affordability of genetic testing are major hurdles, particularly in regions like India where many patients cannot afford these tests.
      • Without widespread access to such tests, implementing a classification system based on molecular alterations becomes impractical.
    • Financial Barriers to Genetic Testing: The cost of genetic testing in Indian labs and abroad is prohibitively high for many patients, further exacerbating the issue of limited access.
      • Addressing these financial barriers is crucial for ensuring equitable access to precision oncology.
    • Lack of Patients in Clinical Trials: Clinical trials based on molecular signatures require a significant number of patients with each type of cancer to produce meaningful results.
      • Without adequate representation across cancer types, there is a risk of generalizing results, limiting the effectiveness of precision oncology approaches.
    • Time-taking Process: Transitioning to a new diagnostic nomenclature based on molecular alterations will likely occur gradually and require careful implementation.
      • While the proposed change has the potential to improve drug accessibility, its full realization will take time and concerted effort to overcome various challenges.

    Conclusion: Categorizing cancers based on genetic characteristics can streamline treatment, improve drug accessibility, and enhance patient understanding. However, challenges like limited access to genetic testing and lack of patient representation in trials must be addressed.

  • Multi-purpose app SAKHI to assist Gaganyaan Crew

    What is the news-

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

    About SAKHI

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

    Utility offered by SAKHI

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

    Gaganyaan Mission Timeline:

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

    Also read:

    4 IAF Gaganyaan Astronaut-designates named

     

    PYQ:

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

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

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

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

  • Kulasekarapattinam: ISRO’s New Rocket Launchport

    In the news

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

    About Kulasekarapattinam

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

    Need for such Facility

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

    Geographical Advantages

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

    SSLVs: Purpose and Development

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