Science & Technology Current Affairs MCQs

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An international team of astronomers used the MeerKAT radio telescope to study giant radio galaxies in the Cosmological Evolution Survey (COSMOS) field. MeerKAT is located in South Africa’s Northern Cape province and originally had 20 receptors, but with increased funding, it now has 64. It is part of South Africa’s contribution to the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project, which aims to build the largest radio telescope. MeerKAT is a powerful radio interferometer, consisting of 64 dishes, each 13.5 meters wide, studying the universe’s evolution using radio signals.

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The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has recognized the indigenously developed Surface Hydrokinetic Turbine (SHKT) under the Hydro Category. SHKT generates electricity using the kinetic energy of flowing water with almost zero potential head, unlike conventional systems requiring dams or barrages. It is easy to install, cost-effective, and has a low generation cost of ₹2-3 per unit. The technology benefits both renewable energy buyers and generators, offering significant opportunities for GW-scale renewable energy production. SHKT can drive the growth of the power sector while promoting sustainable energy solutions.

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The first annual review meeting of Rural Technology Action Group (RuTAG) 2.0 projects was held at SKUAST, Srinagar, Kashmir. RuTAG, launched in 2004 by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA), supports rural development through Science & Technology interventions. It focuses on demand-driven solutions, addressing grassroots technology gaps, upgrading technology, and providing training and demonstrations. RuTAG 2.0, launched in 2023, aims to translate innovations into market-ready products. The initiative seeks to drive transformative changes in rural areas, ensuring sustainable development and empowering communities through accessible and impactful technologies.

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The European Space Agency launched Proba-3 from India to study the Sun’s corona using artificial solar eclipses created by precise satellite alignment. An artificial solar eclipse mimics a natural one, using two satellites to block sunlight and create a controlled shadow. The Coronagraph Spacecraft (CSC) observes the Sun, while the Occulter (OSC) casts a shadow, maintaining millimetres-level alignment for up to six hours per orbit. It allows extended study of the Sun’s corona, far longer than natural eclipses. The mission aids in understanding corona mysteries, predicting geomagnetic storms, and mitigating satellite disruptions.

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ISRO successfully conducted the sea-level hot test of its CE20 cryogenic engine. It is developed by the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre of ISRO. This engine powers the upper stage of the LVM3 launch vehicle and operates at a thrust level of 19 tonnes, already proven in six missions. For the Gaganyaan mission, it has been qualified at 20 tonnes thrust and is upgraded to 22 tonnes for future missions to enhance LVM3’s payload capacity. It features a new Nozzle Protection System, simplifying engine testing.

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Turkey successfully tested the UAV-122 supersonic missile fired from the Bayraktar Akinci drone. Bayraktar Akinci is a long-endurance unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) developed by Turkish manufacturer Baykar. It supports fighter jets with air-to-ground and air-to-air attack capabilities. The drone measures 12.2 m in length, 4.1 m in height, and has a 20 m wingspan. It offers a 25-hour flight time and 7,500 km range. Equipped with AI-powered avionics, dual satellite communication, advanced radars, and collision avoidance systems, it enhances real-time situational awareness. It carries laser-guided munitions, missiles, and long-range weapons and is the first drone capable of launching air-launched cruise missiles.

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Scrub typhus cases have been reported in several districts including Chennai, Tiruvallur, and Vellore, with 5,000 cases in 2024. The disease is caused by the bacteria Orientia tsutsugamushi and transmitted through infected mites. Symptoms include fever, headache, body ache, and sometimes a rash. Severe cases can lead to respiratory distress, organ failure, and death. Factors like vector abundance, climate, farming, and sanitation impact its spread. The Elisa test is used for detection. Control measures include cold fogging, clearing bushes, and reducing rodent populations.

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Researchers from IIT Guwahati and Bose Institute, Kolkata, created an advanced injectable hydrogel for localized cancer treatment. The hydrogel acts as a stable reservoir, releasing anti-cancer drugs in a controlled way. It minimizes harm to healthy cells while targeting cancer effectively. The breakthrough is expected to revolutionize breast cancer therapy. The hydrogel is made from protein-based ultra-short peptides, stable at injection sites, and insoluble in body fluids. The peptides are biocompatible and biodegradable, ensuring safety and effectiveness.

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CSIR-Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CSIR-CIMFR) successfully conducted India’s first trial blast using the Dozer Push Mining Method, integrating digital technologies for enhanced safety and efficiency. The trial took place at Parsa East and Kanta Basan (PEKB) Coal Mine, Chhattisgarh, operated by Adani Enterprises. The method aims to optimize mining processes while controlling vibrations and flyrock. It uses automated machinery, including unmanned drill machines and large-sized dozers. The method is a cost-effective alternative to traditional mining techniques like truck-shovel and dragline methods.

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A webinar on osteoporosis was organized by Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore recently. Experts highlight calcium intake, regular exercise, and healthy habits to prevent bone loss. Osteoporosis is a disease that weakens bones, making them thinner and more prone to fractures. It commonly affects bones like hips, wrists, and the spine. The condition occurs when bone loss outpaces new bone creation, often due to low hormone levels. The disease is often called “silent” because it shows no symptoms until a fracture occurs.