Science & Technology Current Affairs MCQs

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Recently, a rare “double sun halo” was observed over Ladakh. This optical phenomenon features two concentric rings around the sun, caused by sunlight refracting through ice crystals in cirrus clouds. The inner halo has a 22-degree radius, while the outer halo spans 46 degrees. The unique alignment of hexagonal ice crystals in the clouds creates this dazzling effect, making it an uncommon sight, especially in ideal conditions like those in Ladakh.

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NASA’s MAVEN orbiter, launched in 2013, recently captured stunning purple-colored auroras in Mars’ atmosphere. MAVEN’s primary mission is to study the Martian upper atmosphere and understand how solar activity has stripped away much of its atmosphere, transforming the planet into a cold, barren desert. This research aims to unravel Mars’ transition from a potentially habitable world to its current state, crucial for understanding its past potential for microbial life.

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Researchers at the University of Houston discovered a significant seasonal energy imbalance on Saturn using data from the Cassini probe. This finding challenges existing models of gas giants’ climate and planetary evolution. Saturn’s large orbital eccentricity, varying nearly 20%, causes substantial seasonal variations in solar energy absorption, unlike Earth. This discovery by Xinyue Wang highlights the influence of internal heat on Saturn’s climate and reshapes understanding of planetary and atmospheric sciences in our solar system.

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At Asteroid Day 2024, ISRO Chairperson announced plans to study asteroid Apophis in 2029 when it comes within 32,000 km of Earth to enhance planetary defense efforts. Discovered in 2004, Apophis is a near-Earth object (NEO) once considered highly hazardous. However, radar observations in March 2021 confirmed there is no risk of Apophis impacting Earth for at least the next century.

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Indian scientists have developed an open-source tool to generate an infrared star catalogue for the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT). This international project aims to revolutionize our understanding of the universe as the world’s most advanced optical and infrared observatory. Key features include a 30-meter segmented primary mirror composed of 492 hexagonal segments, making it the largest in the Northern Hemisphere. The TMT will be located on Mauna Kea, Hawaiʻi, chosen for its high altitude and clear skies ideal for astronomical observations.

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The Gaia spacecraft, launched by the European Space Agency (ESA) in December 2013, is mapping over a billion stars in the Milky Way from the second Sun-Earth Lagrange point (L2). It monitors stars 14 times a year, charting their positions, distances, movements, and brightness. Gaia aims to discover new celestial objects, study distant quasars, and test Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity, creating a precise 3D map of our galaxy.

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Scientists at the Agharkar Research Institute (ARI) in India discovered a new strain of lactic acid bacteria while studying S. thermophilus. This gram-positive, non-motile bacterium, found in the digestive tract, produces lactic acid, aiding in food breakdown, nutrient absorption, and fighting harmful organisms. It improves lactose digestion, reduces inflammation, and lowers the risk of inflammatory bowel disease. S. thermophilus is used in yogurt production and probiotic supplements.

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Researchers using the James Webb Space Telescope have studied the atmospheric conditions of brown dwarfs. These objects, larger than planets but smaller than stars, are between giant planets and small stars in size. They accumulate material like stars and have hot silicate cloud formations. Unlike stars, brown dwarfs cannot sustain nuclear fusion, which is why they are called “failed stars.” They retain hydrogen and helium better than planets and have low metal content.

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Researchers from the Korean Institute of Basic Science, South Korea have developed Nano-MIND, a magnetogenetics technology that allows precise, remote control of brain circuits using magnetism. Tested on mice, it can activate specific neurons to alter behaviors such as maternal instincts and feeding. This breakthrough advances brain research and could impact brain-computer interfaces and treatments for neurological disorders.

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The Indian Army has approved the procurement of the Advanced Land Navigation System (ALNS) Mk-II for its Armoured Fighting Vehicles (AFVs). This Ring Laser Gyro-based system offers Inertial, GPS, and Hybrid navigation modes and is designed to be spoof-proof with high encryption. It is compatible with Indian and global navigation systems and Defence Series Maps, ensuring high accuracy. The system will be procured from Bharat Electronics Limited under the Buy Indian-IDDM category.