Science & Technology Current Affairs MCQs

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SpaceX achieved a milestone by landing its Starship rocket using the “Mechazilla” structure. Mechazilla is a 400-ft rocket-catching structure at SpaceX’s Starbase. It has two large mechanical arms, called “chopsticks,” to catch the returning Super Heavy booster midair. After launch, the booster separates, descends with controlled thrusters, and is caught by Mechazilla’s arms. This method enables reusable and efficient rocket recovery. It reduces launch costs and boosts sustainability by allowing quick refurbishment and reuse of the booster.

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IIT Madras and ISRO are setting up a Centre of Excellence for research in Fluid and Thermal Sciences. ISRO is providing Rs. 1.84 crore as initial funding for the Centre’s setup and essential infrastructure. The Centre will focus on thermal management research for spacecraft and launch vehicles, aiding ISRO’s missions. Key research areas include spacecraft thermal management, hybrid rocket combustion instability, and cryo-tank thermodynamics. This collaboration will strengthen industry-academia ties, with IIT Madras faculty and ISRO scientists working together on advanced research.

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A study shows that Trypanosoma cruzi, the protozoan parasite causing Chagas disease, can survive in dead kissing bugs, even in insecticide-treated dog kennels. Chagas disease is caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. It is found in the feces of triatomine bugs, also known as “kissing bugs.” The disease is common in South America, Central America, and Mexico. If untreated, it can lead to serious heart and digestive issues. Early treatment focuses on killing the parasite, but chronic cases focus on symptom management.

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Sjögren’s disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks moisture-producing glands, particularly the salivary and lacrimal glands, leading to symptoms like dry mouth and dry eyes. It is significantly more common in women and often remains undiagnosed for years, causing considerable distress. Awareness and proper diagnosis are crucial for effective management, which may involve lifestyle adjustments and medications to alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life for those affected.

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The Space Docking Experiment (SPADEX) is a crucial mission by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) scheduled for December 26, 2024. It aims to demonstrate the autonomous docking of two satellites, named Chaser and Target, at an altitude of approximately 700 kilometers. This complex procedure is essential for future interplanetary missions, human spaceflight, and the establishment of a space station. The experiment will validate key technologies for operations like refueling and crew exchange in orbit, marking a significant advancement in India’s space capabilities.

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A study published in Food Frontiers highlighted the anti-obesity effects of a traditional fermented bamboo shoot from Tripura, called ‘Melye-amiley’. The extract reduces lipid accumulation and increases fatty acid β-oxidation. In vitro studies showed that it reduces intracellular lipid buildup and increases the expression of genes related to fat burning and metabolism. The extract activates thermogenic proteins via the AMPK signaling pathway, stimulating mitochondrial biogenesis and enhancing fat oxidation. These findings suggest that Melye-amiley offers a promising approach to weight management and metabolic health.

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India is set to finalise a $4 billion defence deal with Russia for acquiring the Voronezh ballistic missile early warning radar. Voronezh radar is vital for Russia’s missile defence, capable of tracking threats like ballistic missiles and aircraft up to 8,000 km. Introduced in 2009 and operational since 2012, it uses phased array technology for rapid, efficient electronic beam steering. It operates in multiple wavelength ranges: meter (M), decimeter (DM), and centimeter (CM). Integrated into a Missile Attack Early Warning System, it offers comprehensive threat detection and monitoring of space activity.

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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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India’s first diabetes biobank has been established in Chennai by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and Madras Diabetes Research Foundation (MDRF). It stores biological samples to support scientific research with ICMR’s approval. The biobank focuses on studying the causes, variations, and related disorders of Indian diabetes. Blood samples are collected from two ICMR studies: the India Diabetes (INDIAB) study (2008-2020) and the ongoing registry of young-onset diabetes (since 2006).

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Tamil Nadu has requested the Union government to add the mumps vaccine to the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP). UIP provides free immunization against 12 diseases, including Diphtheria, Tetanus, Polio, Measles, Hepatitis B, and others. Mumps is a contagious viral infection affecting the salivary glands, usually mild and self-limiting. It primarily affects children and young adults, with symptoms like jaw swelling, fever, fatigue, appetite loss, and headaches. Mumps spreads through direct contact or airborne droplets from an infected person’s upper respiratory tract.