Current Affairs - Technology

The exoplanet K2-18b, located 124 light-years away in the constellation Leo, is being studied for signs of possible life. Scientists from Cambridge University, using NASA's James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), have detected life-associated molecules like dimethyl sulphide (DMS) and dimethyl disulphide (DMDS) in its atmosphere. While the findings are not yet scientifically confirmed at the highest level of certainty, they represent an important step in the search for extraterrestrial life. These gases are produced by microorganisms on Earth, suggesting that microbial life could potentially exist on K2-18b.

India has marked a significant milestone in secure communications by successfully conducting its first Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) test over a 4-core Multi-Core Fibre (MCF). This breakthrough was achieved through a collaboration between the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) and Sterlite Technologies Ltd. The innovation allows quantum signals and classical data to coexist on a single fibre without interference, reducing infrastructure costs and enhancing security. Approved by the Telecommunication Engineering Centre, the indigenous technology demonstrates India's growing capabilities in quantum communication and reflects the strength of its public-private partnerships in advancing digital innovation and national technological sovereignty.

The GP-DRASTI (Drone Response and Aerial Surveillance Tactical Interventions) program was launched by the Gujarat police to improve policing efficiency, particularly in urban areas such as Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Surat, and Vadodara. This initiative utilizes drones to enhance crime monitoring, reduce response times, and aid in crime scene documentation. The program aims to provide real-time surveillance and faster deployment, especially in areas with high rates of gang violence and street crimes. With advanced camera capabilities and real-time video streaming, the drones serve as an essential tool for modernizing law enforcement in Gujarat.

QpiAI-Indus represents a major breakthrough in India’s technological capabilities by being the first full-stack quantum computing system developed in the country. This system integrates various cutting-edge components including superconducting qubit-based quantum hardware, advanced Quantum-HPC software, and artificial intelligence-driven quantum solutions. It signifies a comprehensive approach to building a quantum ecosystem, where both hardware and software work seamlessly together, and marks a pivotal point in India’s journey towards becoming a key player in quantum technology.

On April 14, 2025, Blue Origin made history by launching the first all-female crew on a suborbital mission since 1963. The mission was conducted using its reusable New Shepard rocket from Van Horn, Texas. The 10-minute flight carried six women from diverse professional backgrounds, including entertainment, science, and media, across the Kármán line—the recognized boundary of space. This milestone not only celebrated advancements in commercial spaceflight but also marked a significant cultural and symbolic moment for gender representation in aerospace. Blue Origin's achievement highlighted inclusivity and the growing influence of private space companies in shaping future space exploration.