Current Affairs - Technology

Pixxel, an Indian private start-up, launched a constellation of hyperspectral imaging satellites for advanced Earth observation. This milestone makes Pixxel the first Indian private company to deploy such satellites, which offer high-resolution imagery across more than 150 spectral bands. These satellites, known as “Firefly,” are designed to monitor various factors such as vegetation health, water quality, atmospheric conditions, and chemical compositions. With plans for further expansion, Pixxel’s technology holds transformative potential for industries like agriculture, defence, and climate action, helping tackle global challenges through high-level Earth observation capabilities.

ISRO has become the 4th country in the world to successfully dock two satellites, SDX01 and SDX02, using its indigenously developed Bhartiya Docking System. This achievement marks a significant milestone for India, especially as it progresses with future space missions like Chandrayaan-4 and the Bhartiya Antariksha Station. The docking took place 475 km above Earth after thorough trials and precise manoeuvres, further advancing ISRO's capabilities in space exploration. The successful docking is seen as a key step for ISRO's future in the global space community.

The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) has partnered with IIT Mandi and IIT Jammu to develop a Wideband Spectrum-Sensor ASIC Chip. This initiative aims to enhance spectrum utilization and improve broadband access, particularly in rural areas. The project is part of the Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) under the Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make-in-India programs. It focuses on designing hardware-friendly algorithms for efficient spectrum sensing, targeting underutilized bands beyond 2 GHz, and developing a cognitive radio module for the 6 GHz satellite band, thereby advancing India’s telecommunications technology.

The Uttar Pradesh government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Google Cloud (India) to launch the Uttar Pradesh Open Network for Agriculture (UPONA). This digital platform aims to transform agriculture in the state by providing farmers with access to advisory services, credit, mechanization, market connectivity, and real-time data on weather and microclimates.

AI Touch LLP received funding under the Department of Technology's Telecom Technology Development Fund scheme to innovate 5G Radio Access Network (RAN) solutions. The development focuses on creating RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC), Service Management and Orchestration (SMO), and Network Data Analytics Function modules. These advancements aim to automate control, optimize network operations, and generate analytics-driven insights, significantly enhancing 5G performance and efficiency.