Science & Technology Current Affairs MCQs

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Chinese scientists using the CHASE telescope have discovered a new pattern in the sun’s atmospheric rotation, providing the first accurate 3D picture of this phenomenon. Published in Nature Astronomy, this breakthrough enhances understanding of the sun’s magnetic activity and atmospheric behavior. CHASE, a satellite project, aims to deepen knowledge of solar dynamics.

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World Sickle Cell Day is observed on June 19 to raise awareness about sickle cell disease, a genetic blood disorder. Established by a 2008 UN resolution, it aims to inform the public and stakeholders about early detection and prevention. The 2024 theme, “Hope through Progress: Advancing Sickle Cell Care Globally,” emphasizes improving care and providing relief for patients worldwide.

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Scientists have discovered how to control the Casimir Effect to enhance tiny machines. The Casimir Effect, predicted by Hendrik Casimir in 1948, involves an attractive force between two closely placed uncharged conducting plates due to quantum vacuum fluctuations. This phenomenon, filled with virtual particles, has been experimentally verified and is crucial in nanotechnology and condensed matter physics, significantly impacting micromachined devices and our understanding of vacuum energy.

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Researchers from IISc’s Department of Bioengineering have developed a 3D hydrogel culture system that mimics the mammalian lung environment. This innovation allows precise tracking and study of tuberculosis bacteria infection in lung cells. The system serves as a robust platform for testing the effectiveness of TB therapeutics.

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India has certified SEBEX 2, an explosive 2.01 times more potent than TNT, developed for bombs and warheads. Approved by the Indian Navy, it’s touted as one of the world’s most powerful non-nuclear explosives. SEBEX 2 promises enhanced destructive capability without added weight, aiming to revolutionize military ordnance. Its development signals potential for significant exports in defense technology.

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US-based Space Exploration and Research Agency (SERA) and Blue Origin have partnered with India for their human spaceflight program. They will offer six seats on a future New Shepard mission to citizens from countries with limited space presence. New Shepard, a reusable suborbital rocket, will take the selected astronauts on an 11-minute journey past the Kármán line, the internationally recognized space boundary at 100 km.

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The Philippine Army confirmed the imminent withdrawal of the “deadly” Typhon Weapons System, used by the US in joint military exercises. Also known as the Strategic Mid-Range Fires (SMRF) System, Typhon includes Standard Missile 6 (SM-6) for ballistic defense and ship targeting up to 370 km. It also deploys Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles and comprises four launchers, a command post, and support vehicles on trailers. Using Mk 41 Vertical Launch System (VLS) technology, it integrates various missiles and sources external targeting data.

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Researchers developed a new method to store, identify, and share bacteriophages, making them more accessible to patients. Bacteriophages, or phages, are viruses that infect and destroy bacteria, making them the most common biological entities in nature. Found in diverse environments, phages consist of a nucleic acid molecule surrounded by a protein structure. Thousands of varieties exist, each targeting specific bacteria or archaea.

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Dr. Neeraj Mittal, Secretary (Telecom), inaugurated the Centre of Excellence on “Classical and Quantum Communications for 6G” at IITM Research Park, Chennai. This Telecom Centres of Excellence (TCoE)-India sub-centre aims to advance 6G technology with unprecedented speeds, ultra-low latency, and enhanced connectivity. It will unite academic and industry experts to innovate and shape global 6G standards and infrastructure. A workshop will foster collaboration on 6G R&D proposals.

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The Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory (DMRL) has achieved a significant milestone by developing homegrown fused silica radomes for missiles. Radomes are protective enclosures that shield radar or antenna systems from environmental elements without affecting signal transmission. Made from rigid or flexible materials, radomes maintain antenna performance by reducing environmental impact, concealing electronic equipment, and preventing collisions with nearby objects. They ensure the antenna’s durability and efficiency.