Space & Technology 

Technology News ,India :-  The Indian Institute of Technology, Mandi, is making groundbreaking strides in quantum computing by developing a first-of-its-kind indigenous room-temperature quantum computer that utilizes photons for high-speed calculations, as revealed by officials.Part of the National Quantum Mission, this unique computer possesses the ability to analyze data and propose solutions with an impressive 86% accuracy, all without the reliance on traditional algorithms. Quantum computing, an emerging technology, leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to solve complex problems beyond the capabilities of classical computers.Chairperson of the Center for Quantum Science and Technologies (CQST) at IIT-Mandi, C S Yadav, stated, “We are constructing a room-temperature optical quantum computer capable of solving feature learning and classification problems instantly. With a sophisticated user interface, quantum simulator, and processing capabilities, our computer will function as a graphics processor (GPU), seamlessly handling inputs like videos or photographs.”The quantum computer will extract models to elucidate hidden dynamics within input data and provide output as a quantum live feed. Yadav highlighted the unique approach, stating, “Composing a quantum algorithm is tedious. Yet our computer will mirror the inquisitive mind of a scientist, swiftly suggesting an approximate theoretical model for unknown big data with an 86% accuracy, all without relying on algorithms.”While acknowledging other players like Google and IBM in the quantum computing field, Yadav emphasized their objective to develop a photon-based quantum computer at room temperature, in contrast to the superconducting Josephson junction qubit-based systems that require extremely low temperatures.Explaining the technology, Yadav stated that the room-temperature optical quantum computer would use light for fast calculations, employing quantum bits (qubits) to exist in multiple states simultaneously for rapid processing. The system is designed to update itself and erase memory using a special gel.The team at IIT-Mandi is focused on scaling up the quantum computing system from handling 16 tasks to 1,024 tasks simultaneously. Key components, including a single photon source, a phase-sensitive single-photon avalanche diode, and a multipurpose coincidence counter, are being developed to high levels of reliability and effectiveness.IIT-Mandi Director Laxmidhar Behera expressed optimism about the impact of the Center for Quantum Science and Technologies, stating, “Through the National Quantum Mission, we are advancing the field with groundbreaking innovations aimed at enhancing feature learning and classification capabilities across genetics, astrophysics, finance, and weather forecasting. By collaborating with startups and establishing a robust supply chain, we aim to commercialize these components locally, fostering indigenous innovation and aligning with the aspirations of the National Quantum Mission.”

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-01 14:36:26

 Space & Technology 

Space News ,India :-  India's Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, achieved a historic milestone on Wednesday by initiating a groundbreaking project worth ₹950 crores. This project aims to enhance India's space capabilities and involves the creation of a state-of-the-art spaceport in Kulasekarapattinam, spanning 2,233 acres across Padukkapathu, Pallakurichi, and Mathavankurichi villages.Unlike the existing Sriharikota space center, the Kulasekarapattinam spaceport will specialize in launching smaller satellites, including nano and micro satellites. This shift in focus reflects India's commitment to a diverse space program, catering to the changing needs of the global aerospace industry.The unique location of Kulasekarapattinam provides a significant advantage for launching small satellites. Its proximity to the open waters south of India, extending towards Antarctica, ensures that satellites are already in orbit by the time they pass over the southernmost continent. This aligns with regulations preventing spacecraft from flying over landmasses when not in orbit.This new spaceport marks a significant advancement in India's space infrastructure, solidifying its position in the global space industry. With the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies and leveraging the region's unique geographical benefits, Kulasekarapattinam is poised to become a major hub for satellite launches.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-29 15:32:59

 Space & Technology 

Space News , India :-  Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared on Tuesday that India is set to establish its own space station by 2035, marking a significant leap in the nation's space exploration endeavors. Addressing a gathering at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) in Thiruvananthapuram, the Prime Minister also revealed plans for an Indian astronaut to land on the moon using indigenous rockets.Modi emphasized the transformative role of India in the 21st century, showcasing substantial advancements across various sectors. He highlighted the country's remarkable progress by noting that in the past decade alone, India has launched about 400 satellites, a stark contrast to the 33 launched in the preceding decade.Expressing his delight, the Prime Minister noted that a majority of the equipment for the Gaganyaan mission, India's first human space flight program scheduled for 2024-25, is domestically produced. Modi proudly announced the names of the four chosen Indian Air Force pilots who will be part of this historic mission, trained at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center in Russia.Commending the astronauts for their dedication, Modi stated, "These are not just 4 names and 4 humans, but 4 forces taking 140 crore aspirations to space." He underscored the significance of India's success in the space sector, asserting that it is fostering a scientific temperament among the nation's youth.During his visit to Kerala, Prime Minister Modi reviewed the progress of the Gaganyaan mission and awarded 'astronaut wings' to the selected candidates at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre. The Gaganyaan project aims to demonstrate India's human spaceflight capability by sending a crew of three members to an orbit of 400 km for a three-day mission, safely returning them to Earth.The prerequisites for the Gaganyaan mission involve the development of critical technologies, including a human-rated launch vehicle, life support systems, and crew management aspects. Various precursor missions, such as Integrated Air Drop Test (IADT), Pad Abort Test (PAT), and Test Vehicle (TV) flights, are planned to demonstrate technology readiness before the manned mission.Highlighting the paramount importance of human safety, Modi emphasized the development of new technologies to ensure the success and reliability of the Gaganyaan mission. India's recent achievements, such as the successful soft landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the Moon's South Pole and the launch of Aditya-L1, have not only solidified the country's position in the global space economy but have also spurred the growth of the private space sector in India.Looking ahead, India envisions establishing 'Bharatiya Antariksha Station' by 2035 and aims to send the first Indian to the Moon by 2040, further solidifying its place in the global space exploration landscape.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-28 07:08:08

 Space & Technology 

Space News ,India :- Great news! India's Gaganyaan project has passed all tests and is now ready for a successful launch, according to former ISRO chairman K Sivan.Sivan shared that India will conduct the second round of astronaut training, following the completion of the first round in Russia. He emphasized that test pilots will be part of the initial mission, and mission scientists will get the chance to join any successful future missions.In addition, Sivan revealed details about a joint satellite project with NASA. Although specific information is not available yet, he confirmed that both space agencies are actively working on this exciting project.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-28 06:47:05

 Space & Technology 

Space News ,India :- According to a report from TOI, India is making big moves to send its first astronauts into space through the Gaganyaan mission. Currently, four potential astronauts are in training in Bengaluru, but their names haven't been officially announced by the government yet.The chosen individuals are likely to be either wing commanders or group captains. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to meet these potential astronauts at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre. If successful, India will become the fourth country to send a human into space. Here are the names of the four test pilots undergoing training for India's first human space mission.According to TOI, only 12 test pilots who showed interest in the Gaganyaan mission managed to pass the first selection phase. The selection process occurred in 2019 at the Institute of Aerospace Medicine in Bengaluru, which falls under the Indian Air Force.After several rounds of selection, Prashant Nair, Angad Pratap, Ajit Krishnan, and Chauhan were approved by IAM to participate in the Gaganyaan mission. In 2020, ISRO sent these four individuals to Russia for their initial training. The training concluded in 2021, with the Covid-19 pandemic contributing to a delay in the completion of training.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-27 06:39:10

 Space & Technology 

Space News ,India :- The head of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), S Somanath, shared plans for continued lunar exploration and expressed hope for an Indian moon landing by 2040. He discussed these goals during the opening of the 22nd National Space Science Symposium (NSSS 2024), organized by Goa University in collaboration with ISRO.The symposium's purpose is to connect space science and technology with society. Somanath highlighted the renewed interest in moon exploration from countries like the United States and China. He emphasized that India needs to understand these global efforts, as many nations are working towards lunar exploration.Somanath stressed the importance of ongoing experiments and exploration before achieving a successful Indian moon landing. The discussions at the symposium included plans for interplanetary missions, such as the Venus Orbiter Mission and the Mars Lander. There was also a focus on efforts towards a lunar sample return mission for scientific studies.Governor of Goa P S Sreedharan Pillai inaugurated the symposium, which features exhibitions by ISRO, Space on Wheels, poster sessions, and public lectures. The event aims to foster interaction between professionals, research students, and the public.NSSS 2024, running until March 1, aligns with the upcoming National Science Day celebrations in Goa. The symposium offers various events, including scientific sessions, public lectures, plenary talks, outreach programs, exhibitions, student sessions, and posters, creating a comprehensive platform for scientific exchange.The event includes six parallel scientific sessions on diverse themes of space science and technology, with a dedicated students' session to nurture young minds. Public lectures, plenary and interdisciplinary talks, and invited presentations by experts are expected to enrich the symposium experience. Poster sessions over four days will facilitate in-depth discussions for early-career researchers.Simultaneously, the three-day Science Fiesta 2024 at Goa Science Centre showcases significant developments in science and technology. The exhibition, open to the public, highlights space science technology and milestones achieved by ISRO during the symposium. Industry participants associated with the National Space Science mission showcase innovative contributions, engaging students and the public in the exhibition and outreach events at Manohar Parrikar Law School, Goa University.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-27 06:35:03

 Space & Technology 

Space News ,U.S :- The Odysseus lunar lander, affectionately known as "Odie" or IM-1, built by Intuitive Machines, faced an unexpected turn of events during its historic mission on the lunar surface. Initially described as "upright" after touchdown, it was later revealed in a news conference that the lander was actually sideways. This surprising revelation came after the spacecraft's descent, raising concerns about the mission's success. However, despite challenges, the Odysseus lander remains in stable condition, demonstrating resilience and pioneering achievements.The Unforeseen Tilt:Intuitive Machines CEO, Steve Altemus, disclosed that data analysis indicated the lunar lander was likely tilted on its side due to catching one of its feet on a lunar rock during descent. Altemus demonstrated the issue using a small model of the lander during a news briefing. Despite the tilt, he assured that only one piece of cargo, a piece of art from a commercial customer, was on the side facing the lunar surface.Altemus emphasized that the spacecraft maintained stability, with solar panels effectively capturing sunlight and fully charging its batteries. Notably, experimental technology payloads from NASA were successfully tested, achieving key mission objectives.Overcoming Navigation Challenges:Before descent, Intuitive Machines discovered a faulty navigation equipment piece on Odysseus. Facing a potential mission loss, the team opted for a creative solution. They bypassed the malfunctioning equipment and utilized an experimental NASA instrument onboard – the Navigation Doppler Radar (NDL), developed at NASA’s Langley Research Centre.Altemus described the initial realization of the navigation issue as "like a punch in the stomach." Engineers had to operate like hackers, patching in data from NASA's NDL intended for a simple demo flight. The unconventional approach proved successful, allowing the spacecraft to soft-land on the moon. This marked a historic achievement, as no U.S. spacecraft had achieved this since the Apollo 17 mission in 1972, and Odysseus became the first commercial spacecraft to soft-land on the lunar surface.Assessing Mission Success:Despite the triumph, challenges persist as NASA and Intuitive Machines work together to assess whether Odysseus can fulfill all its science objectives. Joel Kearns, deputy associate administrator for exploration in NASA’s Science Mission Directorate, mentioned ongoing evaluations to determine if certain measurements are still possible with the new orientation of the lander.Issues related to data gathering speed and consistency are also being addressed. However, Kearns commended the mission as a significant accomplishment, especially given its focus on the lunar south pole, a key area for future human Artemis missions aiming to return astronauts to the moon later in the decade.The Road Ahead:Intuitive Machines is actively working to evaluate Odysseus's capabilities on the lunar surface and confirm the spacecraft's physical state after the unexpected tilt. The company expressed hope in obtaining images captured by the lander during its time on the moon and plans to deploy EagleCam, a device aboard Odysseus, to capture images from a distance.Tim Crain, Intuitive Machines’ chief technology officer, provided insights into Odysseus's operational timeline on the lunar surface. The spacecraft is projected to operate for about nine days, slightly longer than the initial estimate of seven days. After this period, the lunar night will set in, causing the sun to move beyond the solar arrays, leading to a deep cold that the electronics may not survive.The Odysseus lunar lander's sideways adventure on the moon has added unexpected twists to its mission. Despite challenges, the spacecraft remains in stable condition, showcasing the resilience and ingenuity of the team at Intuitive Machines. The successful use of innovative solutions, such as the Navigation Doppler Radar, highlights the adaptability of space exploration technologies. As Odysseus continues its lunar journey, scientists and engineers eagerly await the insights it will provide and the data it will gather, contributing to our understanding of the lunar surface and paving the way for future lunar exploration missions.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-24 07:58:53

 Space & Technology 

Space News , India :- The Plasma Analyser Package for Aditya (PAPA) payload onboard the Aditya-L1 has been operational and performing nominally. Its advanced sensors have successfully detected the impact of coronal mass ejections (CMEs) including those that occurred during February 10-11, 2024.PAPA is an energy and mass analyzer designed for in-situ measurements of solar wind electrons and ions in the low energy range. It has two sensors: the Solar Wind Electron Energy Probe (SWEEP, measuring electrons in the energy range of 10 eV to 3 keV) and the Solar Wind Ion Composition Analyser (SWICAR, measuring ions in the energy range of 10 eV to 25 keV and mass range of 1-60 amu). The sensors are also equipped to measure the direction of arrival of solar wind particles.The payload has been operational since December 12, 2023. Its observations during the Halo Orbit Insertion (HOI) phase are shown in Figure 1. The figure illustrates the time series of SWEEP electron energy spectra and total count observed during the HOI phase and the period preceding and succeeding it. It reveals about three-order magnitude change in electron counts from 10 eV to 3000 eV. The majority of electrons have energy below 40 eV. It displays an excellent signal-to-noise ratio and energy resolution. Drastic reduction in the electron energy spectra and the total count occurs during the HOI phase due to the change in payload orientation away from the sun direction during this orbit maneuvering period. This is also evident in the ion energy spectra observed using SWICAR (Figure 2).Figure 2 shows the time series of SWICAR ion energy spectra and integrated counts during the specified timeframe. It exhibits the expected patterns of ion energy spectra under normal space weather conditions. The ion energy spectrum indicates the dominance of protons (H+ @ 1 amu at around 800 eV) and alpha particles (He++ @ 2 amu at around 1600 eV). The ability of SWICAR to identify individual ion masses aligns with its design.The electron (SWEEP) and ion (SWICAR) energy spectra observed before and after the HOI phase are comparable.The data collected by PAPA revealed the occurrence of Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) events, notably on December 15, 2023, and during February 10-11, 2024, as shown in Figures 3 and 4. The CME on December 15, 2023, was a single event. PAPA observations during this period (Figure 3) showed an abrupt increase in total electron and ion counts and the time variations align with the solar wind parameters and magnetic field measurements obtained from the Deep Space Climate Observatory (DSCOVR) and Advanced Composition Explorer (ACE) satellites at the L1 point. In contrast, the observed variations in electron and ion counts during February 10-11, 2024 are the result of multiple minor events, with differences in the time variations of electrons and ions.The SWEEP and SWICAR sensors on PAPA-Aditya-L1 are currently making continuous observations of solar wind electrons and ions in the default mode, demonstrating that they are performing as per the design in all modes of operations. The observations made by PAPA emphasize its effectiveness in monitoring space weather conditions and its capability to detect and analyze solar phenomena.The PAPA payload is developed by the Space Physics Laboratory and Avionics Entity of the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC)/ISRO.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-23 15:19:28

 Space & Technology 

Space News ,World :- On Thursday, February 22, the United States experienced major cellphone outages, coinciding with two powerful tantrums from the sun. These solar flares, explosions of energy from the sun, occurred on the evening of February 21 and early morning of February 22. The first flare, labeled X1.8-class, happened at 6:07 p.m. ET on February 21, followed by another, an X1.7-class flare, at 1:32 a.m. ET on February 22. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) mentioned that these flares came from a sun region displaying strong magnetic complexity.As of now, there is no evidence of Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) resulting from these events, but the possibility has not been ruled out, according to NOAA. Despite this, an alert was issued by NOAA for a solar radio emission at 6:58 a.m. ET on February 22, which sometimes accompanies strong CMEs and solar radiation storms.NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of an X1.8-class solar flare on Feb. 21, 2024. (Image credit: NASA/SDO)Coincidentally, widespread cellphone outages were reported across the U.S. on the same day as the solar flares. Major carriers like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile reported tens of thousands of outages. While it's unclear if the solar flares caused the outages, the timing of the reports aligns with the flares. Some solar scientists, however, are skeptical about any direct connection between the solar flares and the cellphone outages. Solar astrophysicist Ryan French from the National Solar Observatory noted that flares typically affect the "dayside" of the Earth, and since the U.S. was not on the dayside during the events, it might just be a coincidence. The effects of these solar flares might linger for days. NOAA reported an "eruptive filament" seen exploding from the northwest quadrant of the sun's visible disk on February 21. While most of the energy is expected to pass ahead of Earth in its orbit, there's a possibility of a "glancing influence" on February 25, as per NOAA's forecast.NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of an X1.8-class solar flare on Feb. 21, 2024. (Image credit: NASA/SDO)NOA issued this warning about two X-class flare events that occurred on Feb. 21 and 22. (Image credit: NOAA)Image Credit: NOAASolar flares occur when magnetic energy builds up in the sun's atmosphere and is released in an intense burst of electromagnetic radiation. These flares are categorized by size into groups, with X-class being the most powerful, followed by M-class, C-class, B-class, and A-class, which are too weak to significantly impact Earth. The sun is currently entering the most active phase of its approximately 11-year solar cycle known as the "solar maximum." This phase could bring more space weather events, including communication blackouts and threats to orbiting spacecraft. On a positive note, it could also result in more widespread auroras globally.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-23 07:45:38

 Space & Technology 

Space News ,India :- On February 28th, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will mark the beginning of the construction of the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) second spaceport in Kulasekarapattinam, Thoothukudi district.The decision to create a new rocket launch pad in Tamil Nadu was made by the central government, as the existing launch pad in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, was handling ISRO's space projects. After careful research, Kulasekarapatnam in Thoothukudi was chosen as the ideal location for the new rocket launch pad.ISRO is gearing up to start the construction of the Rs 950-crore greenfield rocket launch facility, which will cover 233 acres of land. Government sources indicate that it will take at least two years for the spaceport to be fully operational.In addition to the spaceport, PM Modi will be part of a government event at Thoothukudi Port where various other projects will be launched.During the visit, PM Modi will also inaugurate the new railway suspension bridge in the middle of the Rameswaram Pamban Sea, constructed at a cost of Rs 550 crore.To ensure the safety of the town ahead of PM Modi’s visit, security measures have been intensified in Thoothukudi. Central Industrial Security Forces and Coast Guards have been deployed for 24-hour patrols in the area, covering the route from Rameswaram Pamban to Kanyakumari three times a day until February 28th.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-23 06:48:53

 Space & Technology 

Space news ,India :- The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) shared an update about the recent launch of its weather satellite, INSAT-3DS. They announced that all four planned firings of the Liquid Apogee Motor (LAM) for the mission have been successfully completed. The spacecraft is now positioned in the geosynchronous orbit.In a post on the social media platform 'X' (formerly Twitter), ISRO mentioned, "INSAT-3DS update: All four planned Liquid Apogee Motor (LAM) firings are completed. The spacecraft is now in the geosynchronous orbit." The spacecraft is expected to reach the In-Orbit Testing (IOT) location by February 28.On February 17, ISRO launched INSAT-3DS aboard GSLV F14 from the Sriharikota spaceport in Andhra Pradesh. This satellite is designed to study weather forecasts and issue warnings for natural disasters.INSAT-3DS is part of the Third Generation Meteorological Satellite mission in Geostationary Orbit, fully funded by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES). It aims to enhance meteorological observations, monitor land and ocean surfaces for weather forecasting, and provide disaster warnings. The satellite is a collaborative effort involving Indian industries.Various departments of the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), including the India Meteorology Department (IMD), National Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF), Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Indian National Center for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), and other agencies, will use the INSAT-3DS Satellite data to improve weather forecasts and meteorological services.The mission's primary objectives include monitoring Earth's surface, conducting oceanic observations, and analyzing the environment in different spectral channels of meteorological importance. Additionally, the satellite will facilitate Data Collection and Data Dissemination capabilities, as well as Satellite Aided Search and Rescue services. 

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-22 15:04:00

 Space & Technology 

Space News ,India :- In a significant move, the Union Cabinet led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given the green light to amend the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) policy in the space sector. This decision brings about a division of the satellites sub-sector into three distinct activities, each with specified limits for foreign investment.The Indian Space Policy 2023 stands as a comprehensive, adaptable framework, with a vision to unlock India's potential in the space sector by encouraging increased private participation. The policy aims to enhance space capabilities, foster a thriving commercial presence in space, leverage space as a catalyst for technology development, and create a supportive environment for effective implementation of space applications among stakeholders.Previously, the FDI policy allowed foreign investment in the establishment and operation of satellites through the Government approval route exclusively. Aligned with the goals outlined in the Indian Space Policy 2023, the Union Cabinet has simplified the FDI policy for the space sector by introducing more flexible FDI thresholds for various sub-sectors and activities.The Department of Space collaborated with internal stakeholders such as IN-SPACe, ISRO, NSIL, and various industrial partners. Next-Generation Enterprises (NGEs) have already demonstrated capabilities and expertise in satellite and launch vehicle areas. Increased investment is expected to elevate their products' sophistication, expand global operations, and increase their share in the global space economy.The proposed reforms aim to liberalize FDI policy provisions in the space sector by introducing more flexible entry routes and providing clarity on FDI in satellites, launch vehicles, associated systems or subsystems, creation of spaceports, and manufacturing of space-related components and systems.Key Benefits of the Reforms:The amended FDI policy allows for 100% FDI in the space sector, opening up new opportunities for potential investors to invest in Indian space companies.The entry routes for various activities under the amended policy are as follows:1. Up to 74% under Automatic route:Satellites-Manufacturing & OperationSatellite Data ProductsGround Segment & User Segment Beyond 74%, government approval is required.2. Up to 49% under Automatic route:Launch Vehicles and associated systems or subsystemsCreation of Spaceports for launching and receiving Spacecraft Beyond 49%, government approval is necessary.3. Up to 100% under Automatic route:Manufacturing of components and systems/sub-systems for satellites, ground segment, and user segment.This increased participation from the private sector is expected to generate employment, facilitate the absorption of modern technology, and contribute to making the sector self-reliant. The move is anticipated to integrate Indian companies into global value chains, promoting the 'Make In India (MII)' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiatives of the Government.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-22 07:16:57

 Space & Technology 

Space News ,India :- The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is making significant progress towards its ambitious Gaganyaan mission, aimed at sending the first Indian astronauts to space. With the second test vehicle now ready and set for transport to Sriharikota next month, the mission is on track for a potential manned flight later this year.ISRO chief S. Somanath confirmed the readiness of the second test vehicle, highlighting its arrival at Sriharikota next month and preparations for its launch within two months. This vehicle will further validate crucial aspects of the mission, including the low-altitude and high-altitude motors, as well as the emergency crew escape system.Beyond the test vehicles, ISRO is actively engaged in various critical tasks. Helicopter drop tests are planned for parachute validation, while development and testing of environmental life support systems and astronaut training programs are ongoing. Somanath emphasized the “huge bank of work” that needs completion this year to ensure a successful mission.Before the manned mission, ISRO plans to launch an unmanned test flight with “Vyommitra,” a female robot astronaut. This crucial step will gather valuable data on the spacecraft’s performance and prepare the ground for the human crew.The Gaganyaan mission represents a significant milestone for India’s space program, showcasing its technological advancements and aspirations in human spaceflight. The successful completion of the second test vehicle launch and the ongoing preparations across various fronts indicate steady progress towards this historic endeavor.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-21 14:05:47

 Space & Technology 

Space News ,India :- The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has marked a significant achievement in its ambitious Gaganyaan mission, successfully completing the human rating of its CE20 cryogenic engine, a pivotal step for India's manned space flights. This engine is essential for the operation of the LVM3 launch vehicle, which will carry a crew into space, underscoring India's growing prowess in space technology.Scheduled to demonstrate India's capability in human spaceflight, the Gaganyaan mission aims to send a three-member crew into a 400 km orbit for a three-day expedition, followed by a safe return to Earth, landing in the Indian Ocean. This venture underscores ISRO's commitment to advancing India's position in global space exploration, with a focus on manned missions.The culmination of the CE20 engine's human rating was announced following the successful execution of the final series of vacuum ignition tests on February 13, 2024, at the ISRO Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri. These tests were designed to replicate the conditions of space, marking the end of a rigorous series of evaluations aimed at ensuring the engine's safety and reliability for manned missions. The engine underwent a total of 39 hot firing tests across various operating conditions, amassing a cumulative duration of 8810 seconds, well above the minimum requirement for human rating certification.Furthermore, ISRO has completed acceptance testing for the CE20 flight engine designated for the inaugural unmanned Gaganyaan mission (G1), set to launch in the second quarter of 2024. This engine is a crucial component of the LVM3 vehicle's upper stage, boasting a thrust range of 19 to 22 tonnes and a specific impulse of 442.5 seconds, highlighting ISRO's technical capabilities in developing high-performance spaceflight components.The recent accomplishments of ISRO, including the historic Chandrayaan-3 mission's lunar south pole landing and the launch of Aditya-L1, India's inaugural solar exploration mission, have not only solidified India's status in the international space community but also catalyzed growth in the nation's private space sector. Looking ahead, ISRO has outlined ambitious goals, including the Gaganyaan mission in the near term, the establishment of the 'Bharatiya Antariksha Station' by 2035, and achieving the milestone of sending an Indian astronaut to the Moon by 2040, each step furthering India's commitment to exploring new frontiers in space.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-21 08:38:34

 Space & Technology 

Space New ,India :- AstroSat's advanced multi-wavelength capabilities have empowered an international team of scientists to unravel the enigmatic nature of the X-ray binary system MAXI J1820+070, which hosts a black hole. The extensive study, titled "A Multi-Wavelength Spectral Study of MAXI J1820+070 in the Soft and Hard States," has been accepted for publication in The Astrophysical Journal. This research provides unique insights into the behavior of the transient black hole X-ray binary during its 2018 outburst, led by researchers from IUCAA, Pune, along with contributors from India, the United Kingdom, Abu Dhabi, and Poland.Positioned approximately 9800 light-years away from Earth, MAXI J1820+070 is a transient black hole X-ray binary that gained significant attention within the astronomy community when first detected during its 2018 outburst using the MAXI instrument aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Due to its proximity to Earth and remarkable brightness, ranking as the second brightest object in the X-ray sky, MAXI J1820+070 sparked numerous observing campaigns across various electromagnetic bands.Equipped with three X-ray payloads and a UV telescope, AstroSat captured soft and hard X-ray emissions as well as far ultraviolet radiation, creating a detailed portrait of the regions surrounding the black hole in MAXI J1820+070. By collaborating with optical data from Las Cumbres Observatory and soft X-ray data from NASA's NICER mission, the research team gained a comprehensive understanding of the system's dynamics.The study divulges intriguing findings about the accretion states of MAXI J1820+070. Black hole X-ray binaries, including MAXI J1820+070, often exhibit multiple accretion states throughout an outburst. The study reveals distinctions between the hard and soft states, characterized by the emission of predominantly higher-energy X-rays from the corona surrounding the black hole in the hard state, and softer X-rays emitted by the accretion disk itself in the soft state. The research, utilizing advanced techniques, also unveiled the black hole's spin, providing insights into its fundamental properties.Additionally, the study establishes a compelling connection between X-ray emission from the inner regions near the black hole and optical/UV emission from the outer region of the accretion disk. Reprocessed radiation in the outer accretion disk emerges as a primary mechanism for generating optical/UV photons, with a notably higher proportion observed during the hard state.This research extends beyond the specific case of MAXI J1820+070, emphasizing the crucial role of AstroSat in advancing the understanding of transient black hole X-ray binaries. With its unique multi-wavelength capabilities, AstroSat paves the way for further exploration of diverse astrophysical phenomena, laying the groundwork for future endeavors in the field.The significance of this study is underscored by its highlighting of the importance of acquiring multi-wavelength spectroscopic data for X-ray binaries, providing novel insights into the intricate workings of these cosmic phenomena.The accompanying schematic diagram illustrates the geometries associated with the hard state (upper panel) and soft state (lower panel) of MAXI J1820+070, as deduced in this study. Various physical processes contributing to X-ray emissions are denoted by blue-colored arrows, while those responsible for optical/UV emissions are represented by red-colored arrows.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-21 07:14:38