Correct Answer :   Russia

Russia successfully tested its Angara-A5 space rocket for the first time on April 11, 2024. The test launch was conducted from the Vostochny Cosmodrome in the Far East of Russia. In fact, rocket test launches on April 9 and 10 were cancelled due to a malfunction in the pressurization system and a problem with the engine launch-control system.

Previous Launch Attempts and Cancellations

* Two previous launch attempts on April 9 and 10 were canceled due to technical issues.
* The April 9 launch was canceled due to a malfunction in the pressurization system, while the April 10 launch was canceled because of a problem with the engine launch-control system.

Third Test Launch a Success :

* The April 11 launch was Russia’s third test of the Angara-A5 rocket, and it was successful.
* The launch coincided with Cosmonaut Day, which commemorates Yuri Gagarin’s historic spaceflight 63 years ago.

Rocket Performance and Specifications :

* The Angara-A5 rocket reached an altitude of more than 25,000 kilometers (15,500 miles) per hour within minutes of launch.
* The Angara-A5 is a three-stage rocket that stands 54.5 meters (178.81 feet) tall and weighs about 773 tons, with a payload capacity of 24.5 tons.

The Angara Project

* Russia launched the Angara project in 1991, shortly after the dissolution of the Soviet Union, to develop a domestically produced launch vehicle.
* The first Angara-A5 test flight took place in 2014, and a second test was conducted in 2020 from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome in northern Russia.
* A partial test of the Angara project in 2021 was unsuccessful.

Significance of the Angara Rocket

* The Angara-A5 is designed to replace Russia’s Proton launcher and maintain Russia’s access to space after the expiration of the lease on the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan in 2050.
* President Vladimir Putin has touted the Angara’s role in national security, although the project has faced significant delays and technical setbacks.
* Russia hopes to use the Angara’s cargo capabilities to deliver modules to a rival space station that it plans to build in the coming years.

Correct Answer :   2040

ISRO Chief S Somanath announced that India aims to land an astronaut on the moon by 2040, as part of the upcoming Chandrayaan-4 mission, highlighting India's ambitious lunar exploration goals and the progress in ISRO's space projects.

Correct Answer :   Tata Advanced Systems Limited

Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL), in collaboration with Satellogic, has successfully launched India’s inaugural private sector-built sub-metre resolution earth observation satellite, TSAT-1A. This significant milestone marks a new era in India’s space endeavors, offering enhanced surveillance capabilities to the country.

Collaboration and Launch Details :

The collaboration between TASL and Satellogic resulted in the successful launch of TSAT-1A from the Kennedy Space Center, Florida, aboard Elon Musk’s SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket on April 7, 2024. Assembled at TASL’s Vemagal facility in Karnataka, TSAT-1A promises high-resolution optical satellite imagery with multispectral and hyperspectral capabilities.

Technical Specifications and Significance :

TSAT-1A boasts sub-metre resolution (0.5-0.8 meters natively) which can be further enhanced to 0.5 to 0.6-meter super resolution using software. Weighing less than 50 kg and positioned in low-earth orbit, it offers increased collection capacity and low-latency delivery of satellite images, catering to the needs of various sectors including defense and commercial enterprises.

Target Customers and Future Plans :

CEO and MD of TASL, Sukaran Singh, highlighted that the primary customers for TSAT-1A would be government agencies, particularly the Indian armed forces, with plans to extend services to commercial clients. Singh also emphasized the importance of the inclined orbit for frequent revisits to areas of interest, enhancing surveillance capabilities.

Future Endeavors and Space Facilities :

TASL aims to expand its capabilities in the space sector by focusing on areas including assembly, integration, and testing of satellites, data processing, and satellite control centers. Collaboration with ISRO for future launches is also envisioned, showcasing TASL’s commitment to furthering India’s space exploration efforts.

Congratulations and Acknowledgments :

Emiliano Kargieman, CEO at Satellogic, commended the efficient collaboration between TASL and Satellogic, highlighting the adaptability of Satellogic’s Space Systems program in meeting specific satellite requirements and achieving timely launches.

Correct Answer :   Shiv Shakti

The International Astronomical Union (IAU) has recently recognized ISRO's Chandrayaan-3 landing site as 'Shiv Shakti' point. PM Modi named the Chandrayaan-3 landing site as 'Shiv Shakti' on August 26, 2023.

It is noteworthy that Vikram lander of Chandrayaan-3 had landed on the South Pole of the Moon on 23 August 2023. India became the first country to make a soft landing on the South Pole of the Moon.

Correct Answer :   United States of America

The Odysseus spacecraft from the United States successfully landed on the moon on Thursday (22nd Feb 2024), becoming the first American spacecraft to achieve the feat in more than 50 years.

With this, Intuitive Machines (IM) -- the commercial venture behind the Nova-C lander -- has become the first private venture to carry out a successful landing on the lunar surface.

This marks the first American soft landing on the lunar surface since the Apollo era in 1972.

Notably, this landing comes months after India's Chandrayaan-3 lander, which became the first spacecraft from the country to safely reach the lunar surface in August 2023.

India made a soft landing on the lunar South Pole with a robotic vehicle for the first time in the 21st century.

"I know this was a nail-biter, but we are on the surface, and we are transmitting," Intuitive Machines CEO Steve Altemus just announced on the webcast. "Welcome to the moon."

Although, the exact state of the lander is not yet clear, but the company has confirmed it has made contact with the moon.

The landing site of Odysseus is near Malapert A, an impact crater near the moon's south pole.

The site is "(A) relatively flat and safe region is within the heavily cratered southern highlands on the side of the Moon visible from Earth," according to NASA.

Moments before landing, the spacecraft started troubleshooting communication, after the passing of the expected landing time. But, an Intuitive Machines flight controller confirmed that the lander is "not dead yet" and they have received a "faint signal".

The US remains the only country to have put humans on the lunar surface, most recently in 1972 with the Apollo 17 mission.

The space agency said it chose this landing site for Intuitive Machines' first mission because it wanted to learn more about the lunar environment and how communications function in this area.

NASA wants to scout the lunar south pole because the space agency believes it's the best location to set up a future astronaut base..

Source : Business Standard

Correct Answer :   NASA and JAXA

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) are planning to launch the world's first wooden satellite called the LignoSat probe into space to make space flight more sustainable.

About LignoSat

* Lignosat is a coffee mug-sized satellite which is made of magnolia wood, and is set to launch into Earth orbit by the summer of 2024.
* Wood doesn't burn or rot in the lifeless vacuum of space, but it will turn into fine ash upon re-entry into Earth's atmosphere, making it a surprisingly useful, biodegradable material for future satellites.
* After successfully testing their wood samples on the International Space Station (ISS) earlier this year, scientists believe the test is suitable for satellite launch.
* "Three wood samples were tested and showed no distortion after exposure to space," the researchers said in a statement in May. "Despite significant temperature changes in the extreme environment of outer space and exposure to intense cosmic rays and dangerous solar particles for up to 10 months, tests revealed no disintegration or deformation, such as cracking, warping, peeling or cracking of the surface."
* Scientists sent three samples of wood – magnolia, cherry or birch – to the ISS which was placed in a module and exposed in space. The researchers decided on magnolia because it is less likely to crack or break during construction

Importance of wooden satellite :

* More than 9,300 tons (8,440 metric tons) of space objects – including space junk such as defunct satellites and fragments of spent rocket stages – currently orbit Earth.
* Spacecraft made of metal are also expensive and pose a threat to the ISS, other spacecraft carrying humans and – if they are large enough to survive reentry – people on Earth.
* According to researchers, wooden satellites like LignoSat should theoretically be less harmful as space junk.

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)

* The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is an autonomous agency of the executive branch of the United States federal government.
* Established in 1958
* Founder : Dwight D. Eisenhower
* Founded : 29 July 1958, United States
* Headquarters : Washington, D.C., United States

Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) :

* The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) is designated as the main executive organization that technically supports aerospace development and utilization for the Japanese government.
* JAXA continuously conducts activities related to aerospace sectors from basic research and development to applications.

Correct Answer :   India

India is preparing to launch its first spy satellite developed by Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL) aboard a SpaceX rocket in April. This satellite, designed for discreet information gathering, will bolster the country’s defense capabilities by providing real-time monitoring and ground control.

India’s First Domestic Spy Satellite Set for SpaceX Liftoff: Key Points

1. Eliminating Dependence on Foreign Vendors :

* Previously, Indian armed forces relied on foreign vendors for exact coordinates and timings. The indigenous spy satellite will end this dependency, ensuring sovereignty and security.


2. Ground Control Center in Bengaluru :

* A ground control center is under construction in Bengaluru, in collaboration with Satellogic, for guidance and image processing.
* Expected to be operational soon, the center will facilitate efficient utilization of the satellite’s capabilities.


3. Collaboration with Friendly Nations :

* Imagery captured by the TASL satellite will be shareable with friendly nations, enhancing regional security cooperation.

4. Complementing ISRO’s Efforts :

* While ISRO’s satellites exist for similar purposes, their coverage is limited. The TASL satellite fills this gap, particularly crucial post-border tensions with China.


5. Recent ISRO Endeavors :

* ISRO recently launched INSAT-3DS for meteorological studies, showcasing its diverse satellite capabilities.
* Despite the success, the GSLV rocket series has faced reliability challenges, earning the nickname “naughty boy.”


6. ISRO’s International Collaborations :

* ISRO’s collaboration with NASA for a Synthetic Aperture Radar satellite emphasizes its commitment to global scientific endeavors.
* However, ISRO clarifies that the satellite isn’t for surveillance purposes, but rather for Earth observation and research.

Correct Answer :   NASA

The vast expanse of our planet’s oceans and the intricate dance of Earth’s atmosphere hold key secrets to understanding and battling climate change. In a recent groundbreaking move, NASA launched the Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem (PACE) mission, embarking on a crucial journey to unlock these mysteries. This ambitious project promises to revolutionize our understanding of the complex interactions between air, water, and life, providing invaluable insights into our planet’s changing climate.

PACE, launched onboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket on February 8th, 2024, isn’t your typical satellite. Armed with a powerful hyperspectral ocean color instrument, it delves into the microscopic world, studying tiny marine organisms called phytoplankton. These microscopic wonders play a vital role in regulating Earth’s climate by absorbing vast amounts of carbon dioxide. By closely monitoring their distribution and health, PACE can illuminate how oceans function and respond to environmental changes.

Peering Through the AtmosphERIC Haze :

But PACE doesn’t stop at the water’s surface. It also casts its keen eye towards the sky, scrutinizing aerosols. These tiny airborne particles, ranging from dust and smoke to volcanic ash, can significantly impact both climate and air quality. By analyzing their types, distribution, and interactions with sunlight, PACE will provide deeper insights into their influence on Earth’s energy balance and climate patterns.

Collaborating for Climate Solutions :

This groundbreaking mission isn’t a solo act. PACE joins forces with a constellation of existing Earth-observing satellites, forming a powerful network monitoring our planet’s health. The collected data will be freely available to scientists worldwide, fostering international collaboration and accelerating the development of effective climate solutions.

Impact Beyond Science :

Beyond scientific advancements, PACE’s findings have the potential to positively impact society in numerous ways. It can enhance our ability to:

* Forecast harmful algal blooms : Protecting marine ecosystems and ensuring food security.
* Predict extreme weather events : Mitigating risks and safeguarding communities.
* Monitor air quality : Improving public health and environmental well-being.
* Develop sustainable practices : Ensuring a healthier planet for future generations.

Unlocking the Future :

The PACE mission marks a significant leap forward in our quest to understand and combat climate change. By peering into the hidden world of oceans and atmosphere, it’s unlocking crucial knowledge that will empower us to make informed decisions and chart a sustainable course for our planet. So, watch this space, for the secrets revealed by PACE could pave the way for a brighter future for all.

Correct Answer :   China

Chinese automaker Geely Holding Group, opens new tab said on Saturday (3rd Feb 2024) it has launched 11 low-earth orbit satellites, its second dispatch, as it expands its capacity to provide more accurate navigation for autonomous vehicles.

The satellites were launched from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in the southwestern province of Sichuan, Geely said in a statement sent to Reuters.

Geely said it expects 72 to be in orbit by 2025 and eventually plans to have a constellation of 240.

The first launch was conducted in June 2022.

In addition to providing high-precision positioning support to self-driving cars, Geely said its network will also serve other commercial functions such as connectivity to the consumer electronics sector.

The satellites have AI remote sensing functions, providing 1-5 meter (3.2-16.4 ft) clear high-resolution remote sensing imaging, the company said.

China's satellite networks are dominated by its military but the government began to allow private investment in the country's space industry in 2014. Since then, commercial companies, some backed by local governments, have rushed into the sector, with the majority focusing on making satellites and the rest attempting to build small launch vehicles including reusable rockets.

In its latest five-year plan for 2021-2025, Beijing has called for an integrated network of satellites for communications, remote sensing and navigation. China has more than 400 satellites deployed in space, including commercially owned satellites, according to state media..

Source : Reuters

Correct Answer :   INSAT-3DS

ISRO on Saturday (27th Jan 2024) said its meteorological satellite INSAT-3DS has been flagged off to Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR at Sriharikota for the launch onboard GSLV F14.

The satellite had successfully completed satellite assembly, integration and testing activities at U R Rao Satellite Centre, Bengaluru.

The satellite is a user-funded project with the Ministry of Earth Science (MoES), configured around ISRO's I-2k bus platform with a lift-off mass of 2275 kg. Indian Industries have significantly contributed in the making of the satellite.

According to sources, the space agency is said to be aiming for a mid-February 2024 launch.

"INSAT-3DS, is an exclusive meteorological satellite realised by ISRO with the primary objective to provide continuity of services to the existing in-orbit INSAT-3D and 3DR satellites and significantly enhancing the capabilities of the INSAT system," ISRO said.

It was flagged off to SDSC-SHAR launch port in Andhra Pradesh on 25th January 2024, it said, adding that Pre-Shipment Review (PSR) was also held with the participation of members from the user community.

According to ISRO, the satellite is designed for enhanced meteorological observations and monitoring of land and ocean surfaces for weather forecasting and disaster warning, with state-of-the-art payloads: 6 channel Imager & 19 channel Sounder meteorology payloads, communication payloads viz., The Data Relay Transponder (DRT) and Satellite aided Search and Rescue (SAS&R) transponder.

The DRT instrument receives meteorological, hydrological and oceanographic data from automatic Data Collection Platforms or Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) and augments the weather forecasting capabilities.

SAS&R transponder is incorporated in the satellite to relay a distress signal or alert detection from the beacon transmitters for search and rescue services with global receive coverage..

Source : Business Standard