Current Affairs - Technology

The Square Kilometer Array (SKA) project involves constructing the world's largest radio telescope, with two main components: SKA-Low and SKA-Mid. SKA-Low will be located in Australia and will operate at low frequencies, ranging from 50 to 350 MHz. This component comprises a network of 131,072 antennas, forming a highly sensitive radio array. The location in Australia was chosen for its remote and radio-quiet environment, ideal for sensitive astronomical observations. This will enable scientists to study the universe in unprecedented detail, addressing fundamental questions about its origins, evolution, and mysteries.

The Union Cabinet has approved the development of the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV) to bolster India's space capabilities. With a payload capacity of 30 tons to Low Earth Orbit and features for reusability, the NGLV aims to support national and commercial missions, including human spaceflight to the Bharatiya Antariksh Station and lunar exploration. The initiative is backed by an allocation of ₹8240 crore, reflecting India's commitment to advancing its space exploration and technology.

The Union Cabinet has given the go-ahead for the Venus Orbiter Mission (VOM), led by ISRO, with a planned launch in March 2028. This mission aims to study Venus's surface, atmosphere, and its evolutionary connection to Earth. With a budget of ₹1,236 crore, the project focuses on spacecraft development and advancements in space exploration technology, which will enhance our understanding of Venus and its unique characteristics.

The Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has chosen Infosys to develop its next-generation digital platform as part of its DIVE (Digital Innovation and Value Enhancement) program. This platform aims to enhance customer services, business lifecycle management, and operational activities. Infosys was selected through a request for proposal (RFP) process, marking a significant shift from LIC's previous IT collaborations with TCS and Tech Mahindra. The partnership will help LIC transform into a technology-driven organization, offering comprehensive life insurance solutions to meet customers' instant service expectations.

The Polaris Dawn mission was a historic achievement, marking the world's first commercial spacewalk and the farthest journey by humans since NASA's Apollo Program. SpaceX's mission included a crew of four, Jared Isaacman, Scott "Kidd" Poteet, Anna Menon, and Sarah Gillis, who accomplished several milestones during their five-day spaceflight. The mission demonstrated the capabilities of SpaceX's extravehicular activity spacesuit and its Starlink satellite network. SpaceX's successful completion of the Polaris Dawn mission represents a significant step forward in private space exploration and commercial spaceflight.