Current Affairs - Technology

NASA launched the Small Climate Satellite as part of its PREFIRE (Polar Radiant Energy in the Far-InfraRed Experiment) mission. This mission aims to gather data on the heat radiated by the Arctic and Antarctica into space, thereby enhancing understanding of global climate dynamics. Established in 1958 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., NASA is renowned for its contributions to space exploration, scientific research, and technology development.

Scientists at the Ulsan National Institute of Technology in South Korea have devised a novel technique to produce diamonds rapidly, completing the process in just 15 minutes at ambient pressure without the need for seed particles. This groundbreaking method involves a combination of gallium, iron, nickel, and silicon in a graphite crucible, with methane introduced at 1,175°C. Compared to traditional methods, this innovation significantly reduces production time, offering a promising advancement in diamond manufacturing technology.

SpaceX successfully launched the inaugural batch of operational spy satellites for the new US spy constellation. This launch, conducted from Vandenberg Space Force Base in Southern California, marked a significant milestone in the project for the U.S. National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), aimed at bolstering the country's space-based surveillance capabilities.

Wipro 3D collaborated with ISRO in the development and testing of a 3D-printed rocket engine for India's Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). This collaboration resulted in significant advancements in additive manufacturing technology, streamlining the engine's design and enhancing efficiency and performance. The successful testing of the engine underscores the potential of additive manufacturing in the aerospace industry, marking a milestone in India's space exploration endeavours.

Agnikul Cosmos, a Chennai-based startup, has accomplished the remarkable feat of successfully launching the world's first space rocket equipped with a single-piece three-dimensional (3D) printed engine, known as Agnibaan. This breakthrough highlights the innovative prowess of Agnikul Cosmos in aerospace technology, particularly in the field of propulsion systems. The launch took place from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre Sriharikota, underscoring India's involvement in the mission. By utilizing the Inconel material and their patented Agnilet engine, Agnikul Cosmos has demonstrated India's indigenous capabilities in space exploration, marking a significant milestone in the country's space program.