Which day is marked as Red Planet Day, commemorating the launch of one of the most important space missions to Mars?

Daily Current Affairs

November 27

November 28

November 29

November 30

Correct Answer : November 28

Commemorating the day one of the most significant space missions to Mars was launched, November 28 is marked as Red Planet Day.

* On this day in 1964, the United States launched the space probe Mariner 4 on a course towards Mars, which it flew past in July 1965, sending back pictures of the red planet.

* This was the first time that a spacecraft undertook the first flyby of the red planet, becoming the first-ever spacecraft to take close-up photographs of another planet.

* Subsequently, considerable interest has been sparked around Mars, and missions have been launched, to the point that at present, the idea of settling a colony of humans on Mars (as suggested enthusiastically by billionaire Elon Musk) has also been put forth.

Early 19th century : In one of the earliest known cases of a fascination with the planet, NASA’s website notes how in the late 19th century, Italian astronomer Giovanni Schiaparelli claimed to have observed linear patterns on the surface of the planet that he called canali.

* This was mistranslated into English as canals, leading some to believe canals were built by intelligent beings on Mars — an early instance of Mars being thought to have life, similar to Earth.

1964: Mariner 4

After an eight-month voyage to Mars, the Mariner 4 helped humans see images showing lunar-type impact craters, some of them touched with frost. A television camera onboard took 22 pictures, covering about 1% of the planet. These photos were transmitted to Earth in four days..

Source : Indian Express

Published On : November 30, 2022

The Vital Role of the Liver :

The liver is a remarkable organ that plays a pivotal role in numerous bodily functions, including immunity, digestion, and metabolism. Any disruption or disease affecting the liver can have far-reaching implications, impacting not only the digestive system but also the kidneys, lungs, heart, and brain. Excessive fat accumulation in the liver, a condition known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is a growing concern that can lead to serious health complications if left unchecked.

2024 Theme: “Keep your liver healthy and disease-free” :

This year’s theme, “Keep your liver healthy and disease-free,” emphasizes the importance of preventive measures and regular health check-ups to detect and address liver-related disorders early on. By promoting a proactive approach to liver health, the campaign aims to empower individuals to make informed choices and adopt lifestyle habits that can safeguard their liver’s well-being.

The Origins of World Liver Day :

Introduced by the World Health Organization (WHO), World Liver Day was first formally commemorated on April 19, 2012. Since its inception, the observance has gained significant traction, with health organizations, hospitals, and liver treatment institutes worldwide organizing various programs and activities to raise awareness and support those affected by liver diseases.

Published On : April 19, 2024

Q .

Recently (April 16, 2024) 'Tirangi Barfi' has been given GI tag, it is related to which city?

Patna

Kanpur

Lucknow

Varanasi

Correct Answer : Option (D) - Varanasi

In a significant development, two iconic products from the historic city of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, have been granted the coveted Geographical Indication (GI) status. On April 16, 2024, the GI Registry Office based in Chennai announced that the Tiranga Barfi of Varanasi and the Dhalua Murti Metal Casting Craft have been included in the prestigious GI category.

Uttar Pradesh’s GI Product Tally Reaches 75 :

This latest addition has further strengthened Uttar Pradesh’s position as a leader in the GI domain. With the inclusion of Tiranga Barfi and Dhalua Murti Metal Casting Craft, the total number of GI products from the state has reached an impressive 75, comprising 58 handicrafts and 17 agricultural and food products. This remarkable achievement sets a new record for the highest number of GI tags associated with a particular state in India.

The Iconic Tiranga Barfi :

Steeped in the rich history of India’s independence movement, the Tiranga Barfi holds a special place in the hearts of Varanasi’s residents. During the struggle for freedom, this tricolored sweetmeat was ingeniously crafted to facilitate secret meetings and information exchange among revolutionaries. The saffron hue is derived from saffron, the green color comes from pistachio, and the white shade is created using khoya and cashew nuts.

Published On : April 19, 2024

Q .

Hindustan Zinc has reached what position in silver production globally?

First

Second

Third

Fourth

Correct Answer : Option (C) - Third

Key Points :

Hindustan Zinc is now the 3rd largest silver producer globally, with highest silver annual production, up 5% y-o-y

Holds 2nd largest zinc reserves and resources globally

Industry leading production growth rate with best-ever annual metal production

Highest-ever quarterly refined metal production for Q4 FY24, up 6% sequentially

1st decile of the global zinc mines cost curve; lowest annual COP in last 3 years at US$ 1,117/MT

Quarterly Revenue up by 3% and EBITDA up by 2%

Ranked first globally in S&P Sustainability Assessment in Metals and Mining sector

Published On : April 19, 2024