Monthly DNA
Tribal Genome Sequencing Initiative Gujarat has become the first state in India to start a genome sequencing project focused solely on tribal communities. The initiative aims to identify genetic health risks, promote precision healthcare, and enable early detection of genetic disorders among tribal populations. Key Highlights Component Details First State Gujarat is the first Indian state to launch a genome sequencing project focused only on tribal communities. Project Name Named Creation of Reference Genome Database for Tribal Population in Gujarat. Implementing Agency Implemented by the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC). Coverage The project plans to sequence genomes of 2,000 tribal…
19 May, 2026
Biotechnology
India’s First Quantum Valley Amaravati has been designated as the site for India’s first Quantum Valley under the Amaravati Quantum Valley Declaration (AQVD), officially approved by the Government of Andhra Pradesh. The initiative seeks to transform Amaravati into a global hub for quantum technologies in alignment with India’s National Quantum Mission. What is the Quantum Valley Initiative? Aspect Details Location The Quantum Valley will be developed in Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh. Declaration The initiative is based on the Amaravati Quantum Valley Declaration (AQVD). Main Objective To establish a global hub for advanced quantum technologies and innovation. National Alignment Closely aligned with…
13 May, 2026
IT & Computers
Bharat Forecast System The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) launched the Bharat Forecast System (BFS) on May 26, 2025. It is the world’s first indigenously developed weather model offering an ultra-high resolution of 6 km × 6 km, surpassing global standards of 9–14 km. What is Bharat Forecast System? Component Details Launch Launched by the Ministry of Earth Sciences on May 26, 2025. Developer Developed by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune. Model Type An indigenously developed weather forecast model. Global Significance Offers an ultra-high resolution of 6 km × 6 km, better than the global standard of…
27 April, 2026
Other Science and technology Institution
VSHORADS On 1st February 2025, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted three flight trials of the Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) from Chandipur off the coast of Odisha. The trials demonstrated the system’s precision in intercepting low-altitude aerial threats. What is VSHORADS? Component Details Full Form VSHORADS stands for Very Short-Range Air Defence System. System Type An advanced fourth-generation Man Portable Air Defence System (MANPAD). Developer Developed indigenously by DRDO’s Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in collaboration with Indian industry partners. Core Purpose Designed to counter low-altitude aerial threats. Recent Flight Trials Trial Aspect Details Date Conducted…
26 April, 2026
Defence Research & Development Organization(DRDO)
Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS) On 23rd August 2025, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully carried out maiden flight tests of the Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS) off the Odisha coast. The system marks a major step toward building India’s first indigenous multi-layered air defence shield for protecting critical military and civilian installations. What is IADWS? Component Details System Type A multi-layered, all-indigenous air defence system. Missile Layer Includes Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missile (QRSAM) and Advanced VSHORADS missiles. Directed Energy Layer Comprises a high-power laser-based Directed Energy Weapon (DEW). Command and Control Controlled by…
26 April, 2026
Defence
Gandiva In March 2025, the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) renamed Astra Mk-III, India’s most advanced air-to-air missile, as Gandiva, after Arjuna’s legendary bow from the Mahabharata. The missile is expected to redefine Beyond Visual Range (BVR) aerial combat by combining long-range strike capability with advanced ramjet propulsion. Key Features of Gandiva Missile Feature Details Original Name Earlier known as Astra Mk-III. Missile Type India’s advanced Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM). Naming Reference Named after Arjuna’s legendary bow from the Mahabharata. Propulsion System Powered by a dual-fuel ducted ramjet engine. Fighter Integration Planned for integration with Sukhoi Su-30MKI…
26 April, 2026
Defence Research & Development Organization(DRDO)
FPV Drones The Indian Army has inducted its first batch of indigenously developed First Person View (FPV) drones equipped with anti-tank payloads, marking a major advancement in India’s tactical drone warfare capability. These drones are designed for precision battlefield strikes and reflect evolving modern warfare trends seen in recent global conflicts. Development and Deployment Aspect Details Drone Type Indigenously developed First Person View (FPV) drones. Co-Developers Co-developed by Major Saurav Sen, Chetan, and the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL), Chandigarh. Assembly Centre Entirely assembled at the Rising Star Drone Battle School. Production Scale More than 100 drones have been produced…
26 April, 2026
Defence
Indigenous VTOL UAV ‘Rudrastra’ On 11th June 2025, the Indian Army successfully completed trials of the Rudrastra hybrid Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) UAV at Pokhran, Rajasthan. The UAV is designed for surveillance, reconnaissance, target engagement, and terrain mapping in challenging battlefield environments. What is Rudrastra? Aspect Details UAV Type A hybrid Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) unmanned aerial vehicle. Runway Requirement Capable of taking off and landing vertically without a conventional runway. Developer Built by Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited (SDAL). Operational Role Designed for surveillance, reconnaissance, target engagement, and terrain mapping in difficult battlefield conditions. Key Capabilities of…
26 April, 2026
Defence
Indian Army Signs Deal for ‘Suryastra’ On 3rd January 2026, under emergency procurement powers, the Indian Army signed a Rs. 293 crore contract with Pune-based NIBE Limited, in collaboration with Elbit Systems, for the supply of an advanced long-range universal rocket launcher system. The system, named Suryastra, is India’s first Made-in-India universal multi-calibre rocket launcher. Key Details of Suryastra Aspect Details System Name Suryastra. Contract Value The Indian Army signed a contract worth Rs. 293 crore. Supplier Pune-based NIBE Limited, in collaboration with Elbit Systems. Launcher Type India’s first Made-in-India universal multi-calibre rocket launcher. Procurement Mode Procured under emergency procurement…
26 April, 2026
Defence
Agni-III Missile Test India successfully test-fired the Agni-III intermediate-range ballistic missile from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur in Odisha. The test was conducted on 6 February 2026 as part of a routine training exercise to validate operational preparedness. Key Details of Agni-III Aspect Details Missile Type A surface-to-surface intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM). Developer Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Strike Range Has a strike range of over 3,000 kilometres. Strategic Role Strengthens India’s long-range strategic deterrence capability. Test and Operational Significance Area Importance Test Location Conducted from ITR Chandipur in Odisha. Test Nature Conducted as…
26 April, 2026
Defence
Prithvi-II, Agni-I and Akash Prime Missiles On 16–17 July 2025, India successfully test-fired three important missile systems — Agni-I, Prithvi-II, and Akash Prime — from testing sites in Odisha and Ladakh. The tests demonstrated India’s growing strategic deterrence capability and advancements in high-altitude air-defence systems. What are Agni-I and Prithvi-II? Missile Key Details Agni-I A nuclear-capable surface-to-surface ballistic missile with a range of about 700–900 km. Prithvi-II India’s first indigenously developed ballistic missile with a strike range of around 350 km. Strategic Role Both missiles are part of India’s Strategic Forces Command. Nuclear Doctrine Support India’s policy of minimum credible…
26 April, 2026
Defence
Agni-5 Ballistic Missile On 20th August 2025, India successfully test-fired the Agni-5 ballistic missile from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur in Balasore district, Odisha. The test was conducted under the aegis of the Strategic Forces Command, strengthening India’s long-range strategic deterrence capability. What is Agni-5? Aspect Details Missile Type An indigenously developed intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). Strike Range Has a strike range of about 5,000 km. Developer Designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Warhead Capability Capable of carrying both conventional and nuclear warheads. Strategic Role Forms part of India’s nuclear deterrence strategy and…
26 April, 2026
Defence
Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Mk-III & VL-Shtil Air Defence Missiles The Ministry of Defence signed contracts worth Rs. 5,083 crore for the procurement of six Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Mk-III for the Indian Coast Guard and Surface-to-Air Vertical Launch-Shtil missiles for the Indian Navy. The contracts aim to strengthen India’s coastal surveillance, maritime operations, and naval air-defence capability. Key Procurement Details Component Details Total Contract Value Contracts worth Rs. 5,083 crore were signed by the Ministry of Defence. ALH Mk-III Contract A Rs. 2,901 crore contract for six ALH Mk-III (MR) helicopters for the Indian Coast Guard. Helicopter Supplier Signed…
26 April, 2026
Defence
Tejas LCA Mk1A Fighter Jet On 17th October 2025, the Defence Minister unveiled the first Tejas LCA Mk1A fighter jet from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s (HAL) new Nashik production line. A second production line for the HTT-40 trainer aircraft was also inaugurated at the same facility. Key Details of the Nashik Production Facility Aspect Details Production Facility HAL’s new production line located in Nashik. Production Line Status The Nashik unit is HAL’s third production line for Tejas fighter jets. Additional Capacity The Nashik facility will produce 8 additional Tejas aircraft annually. Total HAL Capacity HAL’s total production capacity will rise to…
25 April, 2026
Defence
Rail-Based Agni Prime Missile On 24th September 2025, India successfully test-fired the Agni-Prime (Agni-P) missile from a rail-based mobile launcher. With this achievement, India joined a select group of countries capable of firing containerised missiles from mobile rail networks, alongside Russia, the United States, and China. Key Features of Agni Prime Rail Launch Feature Specification / Details Missile Type An Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM). Strike Range Approximately 2,000 km. Launch Platform Fired from a mobile rail-based launcher mounted on a train network. Strategic Importance Enhances survivability, mobility, concealment, and operational flexibility of missile deployment. Why Rail-Mobile Missile Launch Matters Area…
26 April, 2026
Defence
LR-AShM at Republic Day Parade At the 77th Republic Day Parade on Kartavya Path, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) showcased the Long Range Anti-Ship Hypersonic Missile (LR-AShM) for the first time. The missile represents a major step in strengthening India’s long-range maritime strike and sea-denial capability. What is LR-AShM? Aspect Details Missile Type A hypersonic glide missile with a quasi-ballistic flight profile. Primary Role Designed for the coastal battery requirements of the Indian Navy. Coastal Battery A land-based system of artillery or missiles designed to protect coastlines from enemy ships. Present Range Has a range of about 1,500…
26 April, 2026
Defence
Salvo Test of ‘Pralay’ Missile On 31st December 2025, a successful salvo launch of two ‘Pralay’ missiles was conducted in quick succession off the coast of Odisha. The test demonstrated the missile system’s rapid-launch capability, operational reliability, and battlefield readiness. Development and Test Details Aspect Details Test Date Conducted on 31st December 2025. Test Location Conducted off the coast of Odisha. Conducted By Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Developed By Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad, in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories. Key Features of ‘Pralay’ Missile Feature Details Type A surface-to-surface, short-range, quasi-ballistic missile. Strike Range Has a strike…
26 April, 2026
Defence
Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket (ERASR) India conducted successful user trials of the Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket (ERASR) from INS Kavaratti. The ERASR is a state-of-the-art underwater weapon system developed indigenously by DRDO to target hostile submarines. Key Details of ERASR Aspect Details Full Form ERASR stands for Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket. Weapon Type A state-of-the-art underwater weapon system designed for anti-submarine warfare. Developer Developed indigenously by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Trial Platform User trials were conducted from INS Kavaratti. Launch Platform Can be launched from Indian naval warships equipped with Indigenous Rocket Launchers (IRLs). Strategic Importance Area…
25 April, 2026
Defence Research & Development Organization(DRDO)
Naval Anti-Ship Missile (NASM-SR) On 25th February 2025, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy successfully conducted flight trials of the Naval Anti-Ship Missile-Short Range (NASM-SR). The successful trials demonstrated advanced targeting, guidance, and retargeting capabilities for modern naval warfare operations. Key Features of NASM-SR Feature Description Missile Type A short-range anti-ship missile designed for naval strike missions. Man-in-Loop System Allows in-flight retargeting through a high-bandwidth two-way datalink transmitting live images to the pilot. Guidance Seeker Equipped with an Indigenous Imaging Infra-Red (IIR) Seeker for precise terminal guidance. Lock-on Mode Fired in Bearing-only Lock-on after launch…
25 April, 2026
Defence
ASW Drones In March 2025, Indian firm Sagar Defence Engineering and Liquid Robotics, a Boeing subsidiary, signed an MoU to co-develop autonomous surface vessels for Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW). The initiative aims to strengthen maritime security and improve Undersea Domain Awareness (UDA) across the Indo-Pacific region. Key Features of the Partnership Aspect Details Main Objective Co-development of autonomous surface vessels for Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW). Maritime Role Intended to strengthen maritime security and improve undersea surveillance capability. Focus Areas Covers manufacturing, system integration, testing, and development of MRO capabilities. Regional Significance Supports the Autonomous Systems Industry Alliance (ASIA) initiative in the Indo-Pacific…
25 April, 2026
Defence
Astra BVR Missile On 11th July 2025, India successfully test fired the Astra Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile from a Su-30 Mk-I aircraft off the coast of Odisha. Astra is India’s first indigenous Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM), designed to engage and destroy highly manoeuvrable supersonic aerial targets. Key Details of Astra Missile Aspect Details Missile Type India’s first indigenous Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM). Test Platform Test fired from a Su-30 Mk-I aircraft off the coast of Odisha. Target Capability Designed to engage and destroy highly manoeuvrable supersonic aerial targets. Developer Developed by the Defence Research and…
25 April, 2026
Defence
ERASR Anti-Submarine Rocket The successful user trials of the indigenous Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket (ERASR) were conducted from INS Kavaratti, a frontline warship of the Indian Navy. Following the successful trials, the Indian Navy is expected to induct the ERASR system to strengthen India’s anti-submarine warfare capability. Significance of ERASR Area Details Indigenous Development ERASR is an indigenously developed anti-submarine weapon system for the Indian Navy. Underwater Combat Capability Enhances India’s ability to detect and neutralise enemy submarines with precision. Naval Security Strengthens anti-submarine warfare capability for protecting sea lanes and naval assets. Operational Progress Successful user trials pave the…
25 April, 2026
Defence
Dhruv-NG Helicopter On 30th December 2025, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) successfully completed the inaugural flight of the Dhruv New Generation (Dhruv-NG) helicopter in Bengaluru, marking an important step toward its induction into the civil aviation market. The achievement highlights India’s growing capability in indigenous helicopter development and aerospace manufacturing. Key Developments Aspect Details Inaugural Flight HAL successfully conducted the first flight of the Dhruv-NG helicopter in Bengaluru. Civil Aviation Milestone Marks a significant step toward the helicopter’s entry into the civil aviation market. Engine Certification HAL received DGCA certification for indigenous manufacturing of the Shakti civil engine. Certification Importance The…
25 April, 2026
Defence
DRDO’s Long-Duration Scramjet Test On 9th January 2026, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) achieved a major breakthrough in hypersonic missile technology by successfully conducting a long-duration ground test of its Actively Cooled Scramjet Full-Scale Combustor. The test demonstrates India’s growing capability in advanced propulsion systems needed for sustained hypersonic flight and next-generation missile technologies. Why is this Important? Area Significance Hypersonic Speed Hypersonic missiles travel at Mach 5+, or over 6,100 kmph, for sustained durations. Propulsion Technology Such speeds are achieved using scramjet, or supersonic combustion ramjet, engines. Technical Challenge Sustaining combustion and thermal stability for long durations…
25 April, 2026
Defence Research & Development Organization(DRDO)
India to Procure 26 Rafale-Marine Fighter Jets India has signed an agreement with France to procure 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets for the Indian Navy, valued at approximately Rs. 63,000 crore. These jets will primarily operate from India’s indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, strengthening the Navy’s carrier-based aviation capability. About the Rafale-Marine Deal Aspect Details Total Aircraft India will procure 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets. Deal Value The agreement is valued at approximately Rs. 63,000 crore. Aircraft Composition Includes 22 single-seat Rafale-M jets and 4 twin-seat trainers. Operating Platform The jets will primarily operate from INS Vikrant. Support Package Covers weapons, simulators,…
25 April, 2026
Defence
Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWiFi) Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has launched Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWiFi) services nationwide to improve call connectivity for users facing weak or inconsistent mobile network coverage. The service is expected to strengthen telecom accessibility, especially in indoor locations and areas with poor cellular signal strength. What is Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWiFi)? Aspect Details Full Form VoWiFi stands for Voice over Wi-Fi. Alternate Name Also known as Wi-Fi Calling. Main Function Allows users to make and receive voice calls and send SMS using a Wi-Fi connection. Network Dependency Works through Wi-Fi instead of relying solely on cellular…
25 April, 2026
IT & Computers
‘Project Suncatcher’ On 6th November 2025, Google revealed Project Suncatcher, an ambitious research initiative exploring the creation of solar-powered, satellite-based AI data centres in orbit, marking a major shift toward off-planet computing infrastructure. The project seeks to combine artificial intelligence infrastructure, space technology, and clean-energy innovation to address the growing energy demands of modern AI systems. Why Project Suncatcher is Important Area Significance AI Energy Demand Aims to address the massive energy and cooling requirements of modern AI data centres. Environmental Concerns Terrestrial data centres strain power grids, consume millions of litres of water, and contribute to carbon emissions. Space-Based…
25 April, 2026
IT & Computers
Hybrid Stochastic Computing In a global first, China has recently begun large-scale deployment of non-binary AI chips developed using a novel Hybrid Stochastic Number (HSN) computing method. The technology aims to improve AI hardware efficiency by combining the strengths of binary and stochastic computing approaches. What’s Special about Hybrid Stochastic Computing? Computing Method Description Key Characteristic Binary Logic Traditional computing approach based on exact binary calculations. Very accurate but consumes a large amount of power. Stochastic Logic Uses signal patterns and probability-based representation instead of exact values. Saves energy but may not always provide precise outputs. Hybrid Method (HSN) Combines…
25 April, 2026
IT & Computers
India Demonstrates Quantum Entanglement-Based Secure Communication On 16th June 2025, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and IIT Delhi successfully demonstrated India’s first free-space quantum secure communication over a distance exceeding 1 km using quantum entanglement. The demonstration marks an important step in developing highly secure communication systems for defence, strategic communication, banking, and critical infrastructure. Key Achievement Aspect Details Institutions Involved DRDO and IIT Delhi. Communication Type Quantum key distribution (QKD) using quantum entanglement through a free-space optical link. Demonstration Site Conducted through a free-space optical link on the IIT Delhi campus. Distance Covered Successfully demonstrated over a…
25 April, 2026
IT & Computers
QpiAI-Indus Quantum Computer On 14th April 2025, QpiAI, one of the eight startups selected under India’s National Quantum Mission (NQM), announced the launch of QpiAI-Indus, a 25-qubit superconducting quantum computer, on World Quantum Day 2025. The launch marks a major milestone in India’s efforts to develop indigenous quantum computing capabilities and strengthen the national quantum ecosystem. Key Features of QpiAI-Indus Aspect Details System Name QpiAI-Indus. Quantum Capacity A 25-qubit superconducting quantum computer. Full-Stack Capability India’s first full-stack quantum computing system. Integrated Components Integrates quantum processors, scalable control, AI-enhanced software, and Quantum-HPC platforms for hybrid computing. Launch Occasion Announced on World…
25 April, 2026
IT & Computers
Ironwood: 7th-Generation TPU for AI Workloads Google recently introduced Ironwood, its seventh-generation Tensor Processing Unit (TPU), designed specifically to accelerate artificial intelligence (AI) models. Ironwood is the latest advancement in Google’s AI-focused hardware line, building on a legacy that started with the first TPU in 2015. What are Processing Units? Processing units are the “brains” of computers, handling tasks such as calculations, sending texts, or taking photos, similar to how the human brain manages different activities. CPU, GPU and TPU: Key Differences Component Description Key Feature CPU Central Processing Unit A general-purpose processor developed in the 1950s; manages a wide…
25 April, 2026
IT & Computers
Project Waterworth On 15th February 2025, Facebook owner Meta announced Project Waterworth, an ambitious plan to build a 50,000 km-long undersea cable network, surpassing Earth’s circumference, to enhance global connectivity and support AI development. The project aims to strengthen the global digital highway through new subsea infrastructure and faster high-capacity data transfer systems. Key Features of Project Waterworth Aspect Details Network Length A planned 50,000 km-long undersea cable network. Global Connectivity The project will connect five major continents, including the US, India, Brazil, and South Africa. Main Objective To enhance global digital infrastructure and accelerate AI innovation. Oceanic Corridors The…
25 April, 2026
IT & Computers
Naval Communication Satellite CMS-03 On 2nd November 2025, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched CMS-03, an advanced military communication satellite, aboard the LVM3-M5 rocket from Sriharikota. The mission marked a major enhancement in India’s maritime communication capabilities and strategic self-reliance in defence space infrastructure. Feature Details Satellite Type Dedicated naval communication satellite belonging to the GSAT-7R class. Launch Vehicle Launched aboard the LVM3 rocket into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). Launch Mass Weighing 4,400 kg, it became ISRO’s heaviest communication satellite launched from Indian soil. Primary User Developed primarily for the Indian Navy. Coverage Area Covers the Indian subcontinent…
24 April, 2026
Space - ISRO
Chandrayaan-3 Reveals Moon’s Active Plasma Environment Analysis of data from the RAMBHA-LP instrument onboard the Vikram lander of Chandrayaan-3 revealed that the lunar South Pole’s electrical and plasma environment is far more active than previously understood. Einstein Ring On 10th February 2025, the European Space Agency’s Euclid space telescope unveiled a rare Einstein ring around galaxy NGC 6505, located about 590 million light-years from Earth. The ring was formed by light from a distant unnamed galaxy first noticed in September 2023. Aspect Details What is an Einstein Ring? A perfect circle of light formed due to gravitational lensing, a phenomenon…
23 April, 2026
Space - ISRO
Heaviest Satellite Launch by ISRO On 24th December 2025, India’s heavy-lift launcher LVM3-M6, popularly known as the “Baahubali” rocket, successfully placed BlueBird Block-2 belonging to AST SpaceMobile Inc. (USA) into Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The launch took place from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, further strengthening India’s position in the global heavy-launch market. About LVM3 Aspect Details Full Form LVM3 stands for Launch Vehicle Mark-3, formerly known as GSLV Mk III. Nickname Commonly referred to as the “Baahubali” rocket because of its heavy-lift capability. Vehicle Structure A three-stage launch vehicle with two solid strap-on motors, a liquid core stage, and…
23 April, 2026
Space - ISRO
Aditya-L1 Helps Decode an Unusual Solar Superstorm On 9th December 2025, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced that Aditya-L1, India’s first solar observatory, had captured an unusual solar superstorm linked to events that struck Earth in May 2024. The solar storm behaved in an unexpected manner, providing scientists with important new insights into solar activity and magnetic interactions in space. What Was Unusual About the May 2024 Solar Storm? Aspect Details Trigger The storm was triggered by multiple Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs), which are huge clouds of hot plasma and magnetic energy ejected from the Sun. CME Collision Two…
23 April, 2026
Space - ISRO
Himalayan Outpost for Planetary Exploration (HOPE) The Himalayan Outpost for Planetary Exploration (HOPE) is a specialised space analog facility established by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in Ladakh’s Tso Kar Valley. Inaugurated in August 2025, the facility is designed to simulate lunar and Martian environments for future interplanetary mission preparation. Aspect Details Location Located in Tso Kar Valley, Ladakh, at an altitude of about 4,530 metres. Space Analog Role Simulates lunar and Martian environments for testing research systems, mission design, resource use, and crew psychology. Purpose Tests life-support systems, health monitoring tools, and astronaut safety protocols under high UV,…
23 April, 2026
Space - ISRO
Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) Module On 22nd August 2025, during the National Space Day celebrations in New Delhi, the first module of the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) was unveiled. The development marks a major milestone in India’s long-term orbital research and human spaceflight ambitions. About BAS The Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) is India’s planned orbital space station intended to support astronaut stays, scientific research, technology demonstration, and long-duration human space missions. Key Aspect Details First Module The first module, BAS-01, is planned for launch in 2028. Module Size BAS-01 is a 10-tonne class module. Long-term Plan Planned expansion into a…
23 April, 2026
Space - ISRO
ISRO’s DUST Experiment (DEX) ISRO’s Dust Experiment (DEX), a 3-kg instrument developed by the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), has confirmed that an interplanetary dust particle strikes Earth’s atmosphere roughly every 1,000 seconds. This means an interplanetary dust particle enters Earth’s atmosphere approximately once every 16 minutes. Aspect Details Instrument DEX is a 3-kg scientific instrument developed by the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL). Launch Platform It was launched aboard the XPoSat mission in January 2024. Main Finding Interplanetary dust particles strike Earth’s atmosphere roughly every 1,000 seconds. Working Principle DEX uses hypervelocity principles to detect, heat, and measure microscopic fragments originating…
23 April, 2026
Space - ISRO
Chandrayaan-5 (LUPEX) Mission On 14th May 2025, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) jointly commenced the preliminary design phase for Chandrayaan-5. The mission is aimed at detecting water on the lunar surface and subsurface through deeper India-Japan cooperation in lunar science. Key Points Aspect Details Mission Name Chandrayaan-5 (LUPEX), also known as the Lunar Polar Exploration mission. Collaboration A joint ISRO-JAXA mission to explore lunar water and ice using a rover and lander. Launch Plan The 6.5-tonne mission is planned for launch in 2027-28 aboard Japan’s H3 rocket. ISRO Role India will develop…
23 April, 2026
Space - ISRO
SHANTI Act, 2025 On December 20, 2025, the President of India gave assent to the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Act, 2025. This landmark legislation replaces the Atomic Energy Act, 1962, and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010, modernizing India’s nuclear policy. Salient Feature Details Private Sector Integration For the first time, private companies can participate in plant operations, power generation, and nuclear fuel fabrication, subject to safety authorizations. Exclusive Government Domains Reprocessing, high-level waste management, and heavy water production remain under exclusive Central Government control to ensure national security. Graded Liability…
09 April, 2026
Nuclear BARC
India has recently inducted its third nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), INS Aridaman, marking a major milestone in its maritime nuclear capability. With this induction, India will, for the first time, maintain three operational SSBNs at sea, significantly strengthening its undersea deterrence capability. In addition, India has commissioned the stealth frigate INS Taragiri, which enhances the Indian Navy’s ability to secure strategic interests in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). INS Aridaman INS Aridaman is India’s third Arihant-class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, following INS Arihant, commissioned in 2016, and INS Arighaat, commissioned in 2024. It has been developed under the Advanced…
30 April, 2026
Defence
India has achieved a major milestone in its nuclear energy programme as the indigenously built Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu, has attained criticality. What is Criticality? Criticality refers to the state of a nuclear reactor when it achieves a self-sustaining chain reaction. At this point, each nuclear fission event releases a sufficient number of neutrons to sustain an ongoing series of reactions without external neutron sources. In simple terms, it is the condition where the reactor becomes self-sustaining in nuclear fission reactions. About the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) The PFBR is an advanced nuclear…
09 April, 2026
Nuclear BARC