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What are asteroids? How real is the threat of them causing extinction of life? What strategies have been developed to prevent such a catastrophe? (Answer in 250 words) [UPSC 2024]
Model Answer Introduction Asteroids are rocky, airless remnants from the early formation of our solar system, dating back approximately 4.6 billion years. They primarily orbit the Sun in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter and vary widely in size and composition, containing rock, metals, andRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Asteroids are rocky, airless remnants from the early formation of our solar system, dating back approximately 4.6 billion years. They primarily orbit the Sun in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter and vary widely in size and composition, containing rock, metals, and other elements. Asteroids are categorized into types such as C-type (carbonaceous), S-type (silicaceous), and M-type (metal-rich).
Threat of Asteroids Causing Extinction of Life
The threat posed by asteroids is significant, particularly due to historical events. For instance, a massive asteroid impact is believed to have caused the extinction of the dinosaurs around 66 million years ago, with the Chicxulub crater in Mexico marking the impact site. Such large asteroids, typically over 1 km in diameter, could lead to global catastrophes, including severe climate disruption and ecosystem collapse. Although the probability of a significant impact is low, the potential consequences warrant concern. NASA’s Planetary Defense Coordination Office emphasizes the severe global effects that could result from a large impact.
Strategies to Prevent Catastrophe
To mitigate the risks associated with asteroids, several strategies have been developed:
Conclusion
While the likelihood of a life-extinguishing asteroid impact is low, the severe consequences of such an event necessitate ongoing vigilance and preparedness through continuous monitoring, international collaboration, and technological advancements.
See lessIn what ways do ISRO's Aditya-L1 mission and NASA's Parker Solar Probe differ in their approach to studying the Sun? ( 200 Words)
Model Answer Differences in Objectives Aditya-L1 Mission: Aditya-L1 focuses on understanding the solar atmosphere, specifically coronal heating and the acceleration of solar wind. It aims to study the initiation of Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) and solar flares, which influence near-Earth space weatRead more
Model Answer
Differences in Objectives
Aditya-L1 Mission:
Aditya-L1 focuses on understanding the solar atmosphere, specifically coronal heating and the acceleration of solar wind. It aims to study the initiation of Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) and solar flares, which influence near-Earth space weather. Aditya-L1 also investigates the coupling and dynamics of the solar atmosphere and solar wind distribution.
Parker Solar Probe:
In contrast, the Parker Solar Probe seeks to trace the flow of energy that heats the solar corona and accelerates solar wind. Its objectives include determining the structure and dynamics of the plasma and magnetic fields near the solar wind sources, as well as exploring the mechanisms behind energetic particle acceleration and transport.
Differences in Orbits
Aditya-L1 Mission:
Aditya-L1 is positioned at Lagrange Point 1 (L1), approximately 1.5 million kilometers from Earth towards the sun. This location allows continuous and uninterrupted observation of the sun, free from any eclipses or occultations.
Parker Solar Probe:
The Parker Solar Probe follows a highly elliptical orbit, bringing it as close as 6.16 million kilometers from the sun’s surface. It uses seven gravity assists from Venus to adjust its trajectory and get closer to the sun.
Differences in Instruments
Aditya-L1 Mission:
Key instruments aboard Aditya-L1 include the Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC) for studying the corona, the Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SUIT), and the Aditya Solar Wind Particle Experiment (ASPEX), among others.
Parker Solar Probe:
The Parker Solar Probe carries instruments like SWEAP (to measure plasma properties), WISPR (for capturing solar corona images), FIELDS (for magnetic studies), and ISOIS (for studying energetic particles).
Mission Duration
Aditya-L1 Mission:
The Aditya-L1 mission is planned to operate for at least five years, offering continuous solar observation from L1.
Parker Solar Probe:
The Parker Solar Probe is expected to operate for about seven years, concluding its mission after its closest solar flybys.
In Conclusion, while both missions aim to advance solar research, Aditya-L1 offers a continuous observational perspective from L1, and Parker Solar Probe takes a more direct approach by exploring the sun’s outer layers from within its vicinity.
See lessWhat is the Artemis program, and how does the signing of the Artemis Accords contribute to advancing India's space ambitions? (200 Words)
Model Answer The Artemis program is a NASA-led initiative focused on returning humans to the Moon, with a vision of establishing a sustainable presence there. It builds on the legacy of the Apollo program, incorporating new technologies, international collaboration, and long-term lunar exploration gRead more
Model Answer
The Artemis program is a NASA-led initiative focused on returning humans to the Moon, with a vision of establishing a sustainable presence there. It builds on the legacy of the Apollo program, incorporating new technologies, international collaboration, and long-term lunar exploration goals. Key aspects of the program include:
How Does Signing the Artemis Accords Advance India’s Space Ambitions?
India’s signing of the Artemis Accords in June 2023 enhances its space ambitions in several key ways:
By signing the Artemis Accords, India aligns itself with a global movement in space exploration, enhancing its scientific and technological capabilities.
See lessWhat is the role of the space sector in shaping a ‘New India’? Discuss the initiatives undertaken to promote the indigenisation of the space industry. (200 Words)
Model Answer 1. Socio-economic Development The space sector acts as a driver of economic growth by fostering ancillary industries and employment. Space-based services, such as earth observation, communication satellites, and navigation systems, are crucial for modern sectors like telecommunications,Read more
Model Answer
1. Socio-economic Development
The space sector acts as a driver of economic growth by fostering ancillary industries and employment. Space-based services, such as earth observation, communication satellites, and navigation systems, are crucial for modern sectors like telecommunications, agriculture, and healthcare. These technologies enhance productivity and resource management, ensuring broader socio-economic progress.
2. Self-reliance in Space Technology
Opening the space sector to private players allows them to capitalize on global and domestic markets, fostering innovation in upstream and downstream activities. This contributes to Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) by reducing dependence on foreign technology and strengthening indigenous capabilities.
3. Addressing Emerging Challenges
Space technologies, such as remote sensing and earth observation satellites, are vital for tackling challenges like climate change, natural disasters, urban planning, and resource management. These applications provide data-driven solutions, enhancing national resilience.
4. Strategic International Partnerships
India’s space diplomacy fosters regional development and security. Collaborations with international space agencies enable technology transfer, joint exploration missions, and enhanced knowledge sharing, solidifying India’s global standing.
Steps for Indigenisation of the Space Sector
1. Indian Space Policy 2023
This dynamic framework enhances private participation to unlock India’s space sector potential, accelerating growth and innovation.
2. IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre)
As an autonomous nodal agency, IN-SPACe promotes private-sector participation and streamlines operations, creating a vibrant ecosystem for space start-ups.
3. New Space India Limited (NSIL)
NSIL, the commercial arm of ISRO, facilitates the transfer of space technologies to Indian industries, boosting commercialization and innovation.
4. Liberalized FDI Policy
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) allowances of 74% for satellites and 49% for launch vehicles encourage private and international investments.
5. National Geospatial Policy 2022
This framework democratizes geospatial data, enabling the growth of a robust geospatial industry in India, driven by private-sector contributions.
Conclusion
With reforms and private-sector participation, India’s space economy is poised to grow from $8.4 billion to $44 billion by 2033, with an ambitious goal of $100 billion by 2040. Innovations like private satellite launches and mission control centers exemplify this transformation, setting a solid foundation for a self-reliant and globally competitive space sector.
See lessHuman space missions play a crucial role in India’s growth and development. Analyze this in the context of the Gaganyaan mission. ( 200 Words)
Model Answer Introduction to the Gaganyaan Mission The Gaganyaan mission, led by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), is India’s ambitious human spaceflight program aimed at sending Indian astronauts into low-earth orbit. This mission holds significant importance not only for space exploraRead more
Model Answer
Introduction to the Gaganyaan Mission
The Gaganyaan mission, led by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), is India’s ambitious human spaceflight program aimed at sending Indian astronauts into low-earth orbit. This mission holds significant importance not only for space exploration but also for India’s overall growth and development across various sectors.
Spin-Off Technologies and Innovations
One of the key benefits of the Gaganyaan mission is the development of spin-off technologies. Space missions historically lead to innovations that find application across several industries. For instance, past space programs have resulted in critical technologies such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), heart implants, and advanced water filtration systems. Similarly, the Gaganyaan mission will foster new technologies with applications in healthcare, agriculture, and environmental management, driving growth in these sectors.
Public-Private Partnerships and Economic Growth
The Gaganyaan mission encourages collaboration between ISRO and private industries, promoting a thriving space ecosystem. This partnership is expected to attract significant investments, bolster indigenous capabilities, and fuel the startup ecosystem. ISRO has already engaged private players to develop innovative solutions in areas such as astronaut food and medicine, space suits, and radiation protection technologies. This collaboration will also support job creation, with an estimated 15,000 new jobs expected to be directly generated due to the mission, according to the ISRO Chairman.
Contribution to New-Age Space Exploration
India’s participation in the Gaganyaan mission strengthens its position in the rapidly evolving field of space exploration. By joining initiatives like NASA’s Artemis program, India gains access to advanced space technologies, ensuring its competitiveness and economic growth in the future.
Inspiring the Next Generation
The Gaganyaan mission is set to inspire the youth of India, encouraging careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This will help cultivate a culture of innovation and excellence, empowering the next generation of scientists and engineers to push the boundaries of technological advancement.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Gaganyaan mission is not only a milestone in space exploration but also a driver of growth and development across various sectors. It is a testament to India’s technological and scientific ambitions, positioning the country as a key player in global space exploration.
See lessWhich of the following space missions successfully landed a rover on Mars?
Curiosity
Discuss two widely accepted theories of origin of the earth. Elucidate the position of all planets within the solar system and write the important facts of the earth. [ UPSC PYQ 2024 ]
The two widely accepted theories of origin of the earth are: Nebular hypothesis The earth formed from a cloud of gas and dust, which collapsed under gravity, with the sun forming as it's center. Planetesimal hypotheses The earth formed from the accumulation of small Rocky bodies called planetesimal,Read more
The two widely accepted theories of origin of the earth are:
Nebular hypothesis
The earth formed from a cloud of gas and dust, which collapsed under gravity, with the sun forming as it’s center.
Planetesimal hypotheses
The earth formed from the accumulation of small Rocky bodies called planetesimal, which merged to form larger bodies, eventually becoming the earth.
Position of earth within the solar system
Mercury
Venus
Earth
Mars
Jupiter
Saturn
Uranus
Neptune
The earth is the third planet the sun
See lesswhich is the first Successfully launched satellite of India?
The first successfully launched satellite of India is Aryabhata . It was launched on April 19, 1975 , and was named after the ancient Indian mathematician and astronomer Aryabhata. The satellite was built by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and launched from the Soviet Union’s Kosmos-Read more
The first successfully launched satellite of India is Aryabhata . It was launched on April 19, 1975 , and was named after the ancient Indian mathematician and astronomer Aryabhata. The satellite was built by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and launched from the Soviet Union’s Kosmos-3M launch vehicle. Aryabhata was primarily an experimental satellite to test the capabilities of building and operating a satellite in space, marking a significant milestone in India’s space program.
See lessScience & Technology
"Dr P Veeramuthuvel" is the Project Director (head) of Chandrayaan 3.
“Dr P Veeramuthuvel” is the Project Director (head) of Chandrayaan 3.
See lessCan humans live sustainably on Mars or other celestial bodies?
Living sustainably on Mars or other celestial bodies is theoretically possible but poses significant challenges. As for the Mars we have some benefit for having a sustainable life on the planet like: Similar Day-Night cycle Presence of water-ice Potential for terraforming But we also have to face coRead more
Living sustainably on Mars or other celestial bodies is theoretically possible but poses significant challenges. As for the Mars we have some benefit for having a sustainable life on the planet like:
But we also have to face cons for that
While for the other Celestial bodies we face same type of problem for Sustainable life.
While Significant challenges exist, continued technological advancements and investment bring humanity closer to sustainable presence on Mars and beyond.
See less