Current Affairs - Technology

China has introduced the world’s first carbon fibre high-speed train, which is designed to reach speeds of up to 87 mph while using 7% less energy compared to traditional steel trains. This innovation highlights China’s leadership in high-speed rail technology, complementing its status as the country with the largest high-speed rail network globally, covering over 22,000 miles (35,000 km). This move reflects China's ongoing commitment to advancing transportation technology and sustainability in the rail sector.

NASA conducted the CHAPEA (Crew Health and Performance Exploration Analog) project, which involved year-long simulated Mars missions to evaluate food systems, human health, and behavioural patterns crucial for future space expeditions. The missions took place at Mars Dune Alpha, a 3D-printed habitat at Johnson Space Center, designed to replicate realistic Mars conditions. These analog missions are part of NASA's efforts to prepare for long-duration space exploration missions, studying crew performance under stressors like isolation and resource constraints typical of Mars environments.

Dr. Neeraj Mittal, Secretary (Telecom), inaugurated the centre of excellence on "Classical and Quantum Communications for 6G" at IITM Research Park, Chennai. This sub-centre of Telecom Centres of Excellence (TCoE)-India is set to lead the development and deployment of 6G technology, offering unprecedented speeds, ultra-low latency, and enhanced connectivity. The centre aims to bring together academic and industry experts to collaborate on innovative projects, helping to shape the standards and infrastructure for 6G networks globally. The initiative also includes a workshop to foster collaboration among selected proposals for 6G R&D.

The theme for India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2024, "The Future is Now," was unveiled by Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia. This theme underscores India's leadership in advancing 6G technology and its role in shaping the future of telecommunications. The event will feature innovative solutions, facilitate over 500 meetings with more than 1,000 investors, and include MoUs for enhancing cybersecurity capacity. The theme reflects a forward-looking approach, emphasizing the immediate advancements and future potential in the technology sector.

The Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) in Bengaluru developed a new online tool to create a comprehensive star catalogue for the Adaptive Optics System (AOS) of the upcoming Thirty-Meter Telescope (TMT). This international project, involving India, aims to significantly advance our understanding of the universe. The IIA leads India's collaboration in this ambitious endeavour.