Current Affairs - Technology

The first astronomical observatory in Eastern India was inaugurated atop Panchet Hill in the Garpanchkot area of Purulia district, West Bengal. This observatory, named after the renowned physicist Satyendra Nath Bose, is a significant milestone in advancing astronomical research in the region. It is the sixth astronomical observatory in India, contributing to the country's efforts in promoting research in astronomy, astrophysics, and atmospheric sciences. The observatory is managed by the Satyendra Nath Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences in collaboration with Sidhu Kanu Birsa University.

Blue Origin, founded by Jeff Bezos, successfully launched its New Glenn rocket on its maiden test flight. The launch took place at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and marked a significant milestone for the company. Named after John Glenn, the rocket was designed to compete in the growing space exploration industry, joining players like SpaceX and NASA. The mission carried a prototype satellite into orbit, marking a key achievement for Blue Origin’s future space ventures.

Mission SCOT, launched by Digantara, focuses on enhancing Space Domain Awareness by enabling precise object tracking and imaging in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The mission has successfully established ground station communication, with its solar panels deployed and operations stabilized. This initiative is part of India’s growing space economy, supported by IN-SPACe’s Rs 1000 crore Venture Capital Fund. The space sector, valued at $8.4 billion, is projected to reach $44 billion by 2033, with significant contributions from missions like SCOT aimed at improving space infrastructure and sustainability.

The Bihar Postal Department is adopting Artificial Intelligence to enhance its services, including parcel delivery, booking, logistics, and customer-centric operations. The initiative also includes the development of a Digital Address and Digital Pin Code system, aiming to modernize the traditional postal delivery process. Currently, pilot tests are underway, and the official launch is planned for the next financial year. This integration of AI reflects Bihar's commitment to leveraging advanced technology to improve public services.

ISRO achieved a groundbreaking milestone in space agriculture by germinating black-eyed pea (lobia) seeds aboard its Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies (CROPS). This experiment demonstrates the potential for growing sustainable food sources in space, crucial for long-duration missions. By simulating Earth-like conditions, ISRO's initiative addresses challenges like microgravity, radiation, and limited sunlight, paving the way for self-sustaining food systems for astronauts on extended space explorations.