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Type: Prelims Only

  • ISRO Missions and Discoveries

    Union Cabinet gives nod to Indian Space Policy, 2023

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Indian Space Policy, 2023

    Mains level: Not Much

    Central idea: The Union Cabinet has approved the Indian Space Policy, 2023.

    Indian Space Policy, 2023

    • It aims to enhance the role of the Department of Space, boost the activities of ISRO missions, and encourage participation from research, academia, startups, and industry.

    Salient features

    (1) Outlining roles and responsibilities

    • The Indian Space Policy, 2023 outlines the roles and responsibilities of various organizations in the space sector.
    • The policy includes the responsibilities of ISRO, NewSpace India Limited, and private sector entities.
    • This clarity in roles will help in the efficient functioning of the components set up in recent times.

    (2) Multistakeholder participation

    • The policy aims to boost the space sector by enhancing the role of the Department of Space and encouraging participation from research, academia, startups, and industry.
    • This will help in the development of the space segment and create more opportunities for the private sector.

    (3) Boosting ISRO Missions

    • The Indian Space Policy, 2023 aims to boost the activities of ISRO missions.
    • This will help ISRO achieve its objectives more efficiently and effectively.
    • It will also help in the development of new technologies and innovative solutions.

    (4) Involvement of Private Sector

    • The Policy, 2023 recognizes the importance of the private sector in the development of the space sector.
    • It encourages the involvement of private sector entities in various aspects of the space segment.
    • This will create more opportunities for the private sector and help in the growth of the Indian space industry.

    (5) Research and development

    • The policy aims to involve research, academia, and startups in the development of the space sector.
    • This will help in the development of new technologies, innovative solutions, and talent pool.
    • It will also help in the growth of the Indian space industry and create more opportunities for research and development in the sector.

    Conclusion

    • The Indian Space Policy, 2023 is a comprehensive policy that provides clarity in the roles and responsibilities of various organizations in the space sector.
    • The policy aims to boost the space segment, encourage private sector involvement, and involve research, academia, and startups in the development of the sector.
    • The policy will help in achieving the objectives of ISRO more efficiently and effectively, and create more opportunities for the private sector and research and development in the space sector.

     

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  • Freedom of Speech – Defamation, Sedition, etc.

    Principles of Natural Justice and Proportionality

    Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution – historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Natural Justice, Proportionality

    Mains level: Freedom of press

    justice

    Central idea

    • The Supreme Court lifted a broadcasting ban on a Malayalam news channel ‘MediaOne’.
    • The court blasted the government for silencing voices in the media who “speak truth to power” by branding them as “anti-establishment”.

    A quick recap of the case

    • The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has earlier refused to renew broadcast license of a Malayalam news channel.
    • The Ministry of Home Affairs had declined to grant security clearance to the channel’s promoters citing alleged links between radical groups.
    • Hence the news agency approached Kerala High Court, which upheld the ban on February 9, 2022
    • The Supreme Court granted temporary relief and allowed it to resume operations.

    Supreme Court’s ruling

    • The Supreme Court set aside earlier ban orders and upheld the channel’s appeal on two procedural grounds, namely
    1. Principles of natural justice and
    2. Proportionality

    Articles invoked in the judgment

    • The Court stated that the burden shifts on the Centre to prove that the procedure followed was reasonable and in compliance with the requirements of Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution.
    • The Court used the standard of proportionality to test the reasonableness of the procedure in the present case and assessed the validity of public interest immunity claims based on the “structured proportionality standard”.
    • The Court found that the reasons for denying security clearance to the channel were not legitimate purposes for the restriction of the right of freedom of speech protected under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution.

    Key concepts involved

    (1) Principles of natural justice

    • The principles of natural justice are a set of procedural rules that ensure fairness and justice in administrative and legal proceedings.
    • These principles are based on the fundamental idea that everyone is entitled to a fair hearing, and they are aimed at preventing arbitrary or biased decisions by decision-makers.
    • The SC bench allowed the challenge to the MHA order and judgment of the High Court on account of the principles of natural justice constitutionalized by its judgment in its 1978 ruling in “Maneka Gandhi vs Union of India”
    • Actions which violate procedural guarantees can be struck down even if non-compliance does not prejudice the outcome of the case.

    (2) Proportionality

    • The principle requires that the decision or action must be proportionate to the objective it seeks to achieve.
    • In other words, the means employed to achieve the objective must be no more than necessary to achieve it, and the harm caused by the decision or action must not be excessive in relation to the benefit gained.
    • The validity of the claim of involvement of national security considerations must be assessed on the test of whether there is material to conclude that the non-disclosure of information is in the interest of national security.
    • Courts can assess the validity of public interest immunity claims based on the “structured proportionality standard”, said the SC.
    • The SC observed that sealed cover proceedings infringe the principles natural justice and open justice.

    Conclusion

    • The Court’s ruling has been welcomed by media organizations and civil society groups as a victory for freedom of speech and expression
    • The Court observed that the duty to act fairly derived from common law is not exhaustively defined in a set of concrete principles, and the concept of natural justice “cannot be put into a ‘straitjacket formula’.
    • The ruling has been hailed as a victory for freedom of speech and expression, and a blow to attempts to stifle dissent and critical voices in the media.

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  • Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

    Artform in news: Bidri Crafts

    Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Bidri Craft

    Mains level: NA

    bidri

    Bidri craft artist from Karnataka Shah Rasheed Ahmed Quadri has been conferred with the prestigious Padma Shri Award.

    Bidri Crafts

    • Bidri ware is a traditional form of handicraft that originated in Bidar, Karnataka.
    • It involves the crafting of metal wares using a unique technique that incorporates zinc and copper.

    Its history

    • Bidri ware has a long history that can be traced back to the 14th century.
    • It was introduced to Bidar by Persian artisans during the reign of the Bahmani Sultans.
    • The craft flourished under the patronage of the Mughal emperors, and it became a symbol of wealth and status.

    Crafting process

    • The process of making Bidri ware involves several stages. First, a mould is made of the object to be crafted.
    • Next, the object is cast in an alloy of zinc and copper.
    • The cast object is then filed and polished to remove any rough edges.
    • The design is then etched onto the surface of the object using a sharp chisel.
    • The etched areas are then filled with a blackened paste made from a mixture of copper sulphate and mud.
    • Finally, the object is polished again to remove any excess paste and to create a smooth finish.

    Designs and motifs

    • Bidriware is known for its intricate designs and motifs, which are often inspired by nature, Islamic art, and Persian calligraphy.
    • Common motifs include flowers, leaves, and geometric patterns.
    • Many pieces also feature verses from the Quran or other Islamic texts.

    Recognition and awards

    • Bidri ware has received several awards and recognition for its craftsmanship and cultural significance.
    • In 2006, it was awarded the Geographical Indication status by the Indian government, which recognizes its unique origin and traditional crafting techniques.
    • Bidriware has also been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

     

     

     

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  • Coastal Zones Management and Regulations

    Coastal Aquaculture Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2023

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Aquaculture, Coastal Aquaculture Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2023

    Mains level: Read the attached story

    aqua

    The Coastal Aquaculture Authority (Amendment) Bill 2023 was introduced in the Lok Sabha.

    What is Aquaculture?

    • Aquaculture essentially means, breeding, raising, and harvesting fish, shellfish, and aquatic plants.
    • In a nutshell, it’s farming in water.
    • Saline water along the coast has been found to be suitable for practising aquaculture which produces shrimp, majorly.
    • If aquaculture is not practised on this land, it will be left idle and uncultivated as it is not suitable for the cultivation of crops.
    • Aquaculture can be practised on about 12 lakh hectares in the country along the coast, of which only 14% has been utilized so far.

    Key highlights of the amendment

    • Decriminalisation of certain offences: The Bill aims to decriminalize the offences under the Coastal Aquaculture Authority Act.
    • Fine-tuning operational procedures: It seeks to promote ease of doing business and to fine-tune the operational procedures of the authority.
    • Promotion of environment-friendly coastal aquaculture: The Bill also aims to promote newer forms of environment-friendly coastal aquaculture, such as cage culture, seaweed culture, marine ornamental fish culture, and pearl oyster culture.
    • Create employment opportunities: These newer forms of coastal aquaculture have the potential to create additional employment opportunities.
    • Prevention of use of harmful substances in coastal aquaculture: The Bill also includes a provision to prevent the use of antibiotics and pharmacologically active substances that are harmful to human health in coastal aquaculture.

    About the Coastal Aquaculture Act

    • This Act was enacted in the year 2005 for the establishment an authority to regulate activities in this sector.
    • It is a parliamentary act that establishes the Coastal Aquaculture Authority (CAA) for the regulation and registration of coastal aquaculture farms in India.

    Overview

    • The CAA Act, of 2005 mandates the Central Government to take measures to regulate coastal aquaculture and ensure that it does not cause any harm to the coastal environment.
    • The guidelines prescribed by the government aim to promote responsible coastal aquaculture practices that protect the livelihood of various coastal communities.

    Key features

    • The CAA Act, 2005 provides for the establishment of the Coastal Aquaculture Authority to regulate the activities related to coastal aquaculture.
    • The Central Government is responsible for prescribing guidelines to regulate coastal aquaculture activities and ensure responsible practices.
    • The guidelines aim to protect the livelihood of coastal communities and prevent any harm to the coastal environment.
    • The Act also mandates the registration of coastal aquaculture farms to ensure their compliance with the guidelines.
    • The CAA is a strong force in enforcing the regulations and registration of coastal aquaculture farms in India.

    Significance

    • The Coastal Aquaculture Authority Act, of 2005 is significant in promoting responsible coastal aquaculture practices and protecting the livelihood of coastal communities.
    • The act ensures that coastal aquaculture activities are regulated and registered, which helps prevent harm to the coastal environment.

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  • Tribes in News

    Tribes in news: Idu Mishmis

    Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Dibang WLS, Idu Mishmi

    Mains level: Not Much

    mishmi

    Central idea

    • The National Tiger Conservation Authority has proposed to notify Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary in Arunachal Pradesh as a tiger reserve, causing concerns among the Idu Mishmi community.
    • The Idu Mishmi community has a unique cultural relationship with the forest, particularly with tigers.
    • This article explains who the Idu Mishmis are, their relationship with the forest, the move to propose a tiger reserve, and the community’s resistance.

    Who are the Idu Mishmis?

    • The Idu Mishmi community is a sub-tribe of the larger Mishmi group, primarily living in the Mishmi Hills bordering Tibet in Arunachal Pradesh.
    • The tribe has strong ties with the flora and fauna of the region, particularly tigers, which are considered their “elder brothers” in their mythology.
    • Despite traditional hunting practices, the tribe follows a belief system of myths and taboos that restrict them from hunting many animals, including a complete prohibition on killing tigers.
    • This belief system has led to a unique model of wildlife conservation, according to anthropologists and researchers.

    Overturning Dibang WLS into Tiger Reserve

    • Plans to declare Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary as a tiger reserve have been ongoing for a while now.
    • The sanctuary, home to rare Mishmi takin, musk deer, goral, clouded leopards, snow leopards, and tigers, was notified in 1998.
    • The Wildlife Institute of India carried out a survey in 2014 to determine the presence of tigers in the area based on photographic evidence via camera trapping.
    • The study recorded the presence of tigers in the highest reaches of the Mishmi Hills, forming the basis of the proposal to declare the sanctuary as a tiger reserve.

    Why are the Idu Mishmis resisting the move?

    • The community’s access to the Dibang forests has not been impacted as a wildlife sanctuary, but many believe a tiger reserve would increasingly restrict access.
    • The upgrade to a tiger reserve would feature stricter security measures, such as a ‘Special Tiger Protection Force,’ which would hinder the community’s access to their forest lands.
    • The community has declared part of its forest land as a ‘Community Conserved Area,’ governed entirely by local populations, where they ban hunting, felling trees, and implement other conservation measures.
    • The community alleges that the Dibang WLS was created without their consent or knowledge.

    Back2Basics: Mishmi Tribe

    Information
    Name and Location Mishmi people, an indigenous group living in the northeastern Indian states of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, as well as parts of Tibet and Myanmar
    Subgroups Idu Mishmi, Digaru Mishmi, and Miju Mishmi
    Migration and Language Believed to have migrated from the Mongoloid race, their languages belong to the Tibeto-Burman family
    History Rich and complex history dating back several centuries, involved in conflicts with neighboring tribes and states, affected by British colonialism and creation of McMahon Line, played important role in Sino-Indian War
    Culture Rich cultural heritage and traditional knowledge, unique customs and practices related to birth, marriage, and death, known for craftsmanship skills in weaving, woodcarving, and metalwork, rich mythology
    Religion Primarily animists, believe in spirits in nature, worship ancestors and spirits of forests and mountains, rich tradition of shamanism
    Livelihoods Primarily agriculturists, with rice as staple crop, engage in animal husbandry, fishing, beekeeping is an important source of income, hunting restricted
    Challenges Struggling to protect ancestral lands from outsiders, culture and way of life threatened by modernization and globalization, vulnerable to effects of climate change

     

     

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  • ISRO Missions and Discoveries

    What is Dhawan II Engine?

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Dhawan II engine

    Mains level: Privatization of space activities

     

    dhawan

    In Telangana, private space vehicle company Skyroot Aerospace has test-fired its 3D-printed Dhawan II engine.

    Dhawan II Engine

    • The Dhawan II engine is a cryogenic engine developed by Skyroot Aerospace for use as the upper stage of the updated version of their Vikram II rocket.
    • The engine was recently test-fired for a duration of 200 seconds and demonstrated impressive performance results.
    • Cryogenic engines use extremely cold liquid propellants, which can provide greater thrust and enhance the payload-carrying capacity of a rocket.
    • The engine was developed using advanced technologies like 3D printing and green propellants.
    • Its successful testing marks a significant milestone for Skyroot Aerospace in their efforts to become the first private launcher from South Asia.

    Stipulated use

    • The Dhawan II engine will be used as the upper stage of the updated version Vikram-2.
    • Using a cryogenic upper stage instead of a solid fuel stage enhances the payload carrying capacity of a rocket.
    • The updated Vikram II rocket is scheduled to become launch-ready by next year, making Skyroot the first private launcher from South Asia.

    Skyroot’s other sub-orbital and orbital flights

    • Skyroot carried out its first sub-orbital flight in November 2021, using a single-stage solid fuel Vikram S rocket.
    • The company plans to carry out its first orbital flight by the end of this year using the updated Vikram II rocket.
    • The Vikram-1 rocket, the first in the series of rockets being developed by Skyroot, will use three solid-fuel stages to take satellites to orbit.

    Impressive performance results and advanced technologies

    • The endurance test of Dhawan-II demonstrated impressive performance results.
    • The company is proud to be at the forefront of developing cutting-edge cryogenic technologies in the private space sector of India.

     

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  • Intellectual Property Rights in India

    What are Performer’s Rights?

    Prelims Only | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Intellectual Property Rights

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Performers' Right

    Mains level: Not Much

    Central idea

    • This article discusses a recent case involving Bollywood actor and producer, in which the Bombay High Court ruled that sales tax cannot be levied on the transfer of copyright.
    • The ruling has implications for the entertainment industry, particularly in terms of taxation and copyright protection as well as performer’s rights.

    What are Performer’s Rights?

    • It refer to the legal rights granted to performing artists or performers in relation to their performances.
    • These rights generally include the right to control and protect their performances from unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, and public performance.
    • Performer’s rights may include the right to control the following:
    1. Recording: Performers have the right to prevent others from recording their live performances without their consent.
    2. Broadcasting and Communication to the Public: Performers have the right to control the broadcasting, communication, and distribution of their performances to the public, including radio, television, and online streaming platforms.
    3. Reproduction: Performers have the right to control the reproduction of their performances in any media format.
    4. Adaptation: Performers have the right to control the adaptation of their performances into other forms, such as musicals or films.
    5. Attribution: Performers have the right to be identified as the performers of their works, and to prevent others from falsely claiming authorship of their performances.

    Legal protection of performer’s right

    Legal protection of performers’ rights has evolved over time through international treaties and national laws.

    • The Rome Convention in 1961 was the first significant development in the protection of performers’ rights.
    • Performers’ rights are protected under various international treaties such as the Rome Convention and the WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty.
    • In 1996, WIPO Performance and Phonogram Treaty (WPPT) recognized the moral rights of performers for the first time in any international treaty.
    • In India, performer rights were recognized under the Copyright Act of 1957 in 1994.
    • The Copyright Act is in conformity with the WIPO Copyright Treaty (WCT) and the WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty (WPPT), both concluded in 1996.
    • The protection of performers’ rights in India lasts for 50 years from the end of the year in which the performance was fixed or took place.

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  • Disasters and Disaster Management – Sendai Framework, Floods, Cyclones, etc.

    Places in news: Nathu La

    Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Disaster Management

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Nathu La Pass

    Mains level: Not Much

    nathu la

    Several people have been killed and many others are feared trapped under snow after a massive avalanche near Sikkim’s Nathu La Mountain pass.

    Nathu La Pass

    Location Sikkim, on the border between India and China
    Altitude 4,310 meters (14,140 ft)
    Importance Historical Silk Route
    Trade Reopened in 2006 for border trade between India and China
    Restrictions Only for Indian and Chinese nationals with a valid visa
    Connectivity Connects the Indian state of Sikkim with the Tibet Autonomous Region of China
    Military importance Strategic importance in the Sino-Indian War of 1962
    Tourism Restricted due to the sensitive nature of the region
    Weather Harsh and unpredictable, with heavy snowfall in winter months
    Border dispute The pass was closed by China after the 1962 war and was reopened only after the Chinese president visited India in 2003.

     

    How has it been at the centre stage of India-China disputes?

    • Sino-Indian War: In 1962, Nathu La pass was a battleground between the Indian and Chinese armies during the Sino-Indian War. The conflict resulted in casualties on both sides, with China ultimately capturing the pass.
    • Skirmishes in 1967: In 1967, there were several minor skirmishes between the Indian and Chinese armies near Nathu La pass. The conflict was resolved through diplomatic negotiations.
    • Standoff in 2017: In 2017, there was a 73-day-long standoff between the Indian and Chinese armies near the Doklam plateau, which is close to Nathu La pass. The dispute was over the construction of a road by China in the disputed area. The standoff ended with both sides agreeing to disengage.

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  • GI(Geographical Indicator) Tags

    GI art in news: Basohli Paintings

    Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: Basohli Paintings, GI tag

    Mains level: Not Much

    basohli

    The famous Basohli Painting, known for its miniature art style from Kathua district, has received the Geographical Indication (GI) Tag.

    Basohli Paintings

    • Basohli Paintings are a form of miniature paintings that originated in the town of Basohli in the Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir.
    • They are known for their vibrant color, intricate details, and depictions of Hindu mythology and legends.
    • Basohli Paintings date back to the 17th and 18th centuries and are considered to be the earliest examples of Pahari paintings.

    Key features 

    Description
    Miniature art Known for their miniature art style, characterized by intricate and detailed work
    Bold and vibrant color Made from natural dyes and pigments
    Depiction of Hindu mythology Life of Lord Krishna and stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata
    Elaborate compositions Multiple figures and scenes depicted in a single painting
    Fine detailing Intricate patterns and designs that are often difficult to replicate
    Gold and silver accents Such accents add to their ornate and intricate appearance

     

    Other GI products from J&K

    • The UT of Jammu and Kashmir has included 33 products on the list that have received the GI tag on 31 March 2023.
    • The products that received the GI tags include Basohli Pashmina Woolen Products (Kathua), Chikri Wood Craft (Rajouri), Bhaderwah Rajma (Doda), Mushkbudji Rice (Anantnag), Kaladi (Udhampur), Sulai Honey (Ramban), Anardana (Ramban), and Ladakh Wood Carving (Ladakh).

    Back2Basics: Geographical Indication (GI)

    • A GI is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.
    • Nodal Agency: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry
    • India, as a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), enacted the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 w.e.f. September 2003.
    • GIs have been defined under Article 22 (1) of the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement.
    • The tag stands valid for 10 years.

     

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  • ISRO Missions and Discoveries

    ISRO’s Reusable Launch Vehicle Mission RLV LEX

    Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Achievements Of Indians In S&T,Awareness in various sc and tech fields

    Note4Students

    From UPSC perspective, the following things are important:

    Prelims level: RLV

    Mains level: Read the attached story

    reus

    The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) conducted a successful autonomous landing mission experiment for a Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) at the Aeronautical Test Range in Chitradurga, Karnataka.

    What is a Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV)?

    • RLV is a type of spacecraft that is designed to be reused multiple times for launching payloads into space, instead of being discarded after a single launch like traditional rockets.
    • They are seen as a more cost-effective and sustainable option for space launches, as they reduce the need for manufacturing new rockets for each mission.
    • They typically consist of a reusable orbiter, similar to a space shuttle, and a reusable booster that provides the initial thrust needed to lift the orbiter and payload into space.
    • After the payload is released into orbit, the orbiter and booster return to Earth and land back on a runway, where they can be refurbished and reused for future launches.

    Why developing RLV is a big feat?

    Developing RLVs requires advanced technologies, including-

    1. Heat-resistant materials for protecting the spacecraft during re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere
    2. Advanced guidance and control systems for landing and
    3. Reliable propulsion systems for launching and landing

    ISRO’s RLV-TD project

    • ISRO is developing essential technologies for a fully reusable launch vehicle to enable low-cost access to space.
    • The RLV-TD is being used to develop technologies like hypersonic flight (HEX), autonomous landing (LEX), return flight experiment (REX), powered cruise flight, and Scramjet Propulsion Experiment (SPEX).
    • It looks like an aircraft and consists of a fuselage, a nose cap, double delta wings, and twin vertical tails.

    Development of RLV

    (1) First RLV experiment:

    • In 2016, the RLV-TD was launched into space on a rocket powered by a conventional solid booster (HS9) engine.
    • The spacecraft travelled at a speed of Mach 5 when re-entering the earth’s orbit and travelled a distance of 450 km before splashdown in the Bay of Bengal.
    • Critical technologies such as autonomous navigation, guidance and control, reusable thermal protection system, and re-entry mission management were successfully validated.

    (2) Second RLV experiment:

    • The RLV LEX test on April 2, 2023, involved a Chinook Helicopter lifting the RLV LEX to a height of 4.5 km and releasing the RLV.
    • After midair release, the RLV carried out an autonomous landing on the Aeronautical Test Range airstrip, under the exact conditions of a Space Re-entry vehicle’s landing.
    • It achieved landing parameters as might be experienced by an orbital re-entry space vehicle in its return path.

    Advantages of RLVs

    • Reusable launch vehicles are considered a low-cost, reliable, and on-demand mode of accessing space.
    • The cost of a launch can be reduced by nearly 80 percent of the present cost by using RLVs.

    Global RLV technologies

    • NASA space shuttles have been carrying out dozens of human space flight missions.
    • The private space launch services provider SpaceX demonstrated partially reusable launch systems with its Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy rockets since 2017.
    • SpaceX is also working on a fully reusable launch vehicle system called Starship.
    • Several private launch service providers and government space agencies are working on developing reusable launch systems.

    Significance

    • RLVs have the potential to significantly reduce the cost of space launches, as a significant portion of the cost of traditional rockets comes from the need to manufacture new rockets for each mission.
    • By reusing spacecraft, the cost per launch can be significantly reduced.
    • Additionally, RLVs can provide greater flexibility and reliability for space launches, as they can be launched on-demand instead of needing to be manufactured and assembled for each mission.

     

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