Science & Technology Current Affairs MCQs

Notes:
Japan successfully launched the Michibiki 6 satellite on the new H3 rocket, aiming to improve its navigation system. The launch occurred at the Tanegashima Space Center, and the satellite separated successfully 29 minutes after liftoff. Michibiki 6 will be the fifth satellite in Japan’s quasi-zenith satellite system (QZSS). The system supplements US GPS and improves positioning for various devices. Japan plans to expand to seven satellites by 2026 and an 11-satellite network by the late 2030s. The launch was the fourth successful flight for the H3 rocket system.

Notes:
United States (US) Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Suzetrigine, a new non-opioid painkiller. Opioids are drugs derived from the opium poppy plant or designed to mimic them. Examples include oxycodone, morphine, codeine, heroin, and fentanyl. They bind to opioid receptors in the brain, blocking pain signals and creating euphoric sensations. While effective for pain relief, opioids carry a high risk of addiction and dependence. Suzetrigine offers an alternative to opioids, reducing the risk of opioid addiction.

Notes:
NASA will launch the Pandora mission in 2025 to study the atmospheres of distant exoplanets. It will focus on clouds, hazes, and water, key factors for habitability. Pandora aims to fill gaps left by existing telescopes like James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), focusing on planetary transits to improve exoplanet models. The mission will explore planetary formation, evolution, and habitability. Pandora will use a specialized telescope to study light interactions with atmospheric particles, enhancing knowledge of planetary climates and chemistry.

Notes:
Jharkhand health department issued a bird flu (H5N1) alert after detection at Birsa Agricultural University, Ranchi. Bird flu (Avian Influenza) is caused by Influenza A viruses and can spread from birds to humans. H5N1, H7N9, H5N6, and H9N2 are key virus strains, with H5N1 known for high fatality. Transmission occurs through infected birds, airborne particles, contaminated surfaces, and animal products.

Notes:
Researchers discovered a new type of brain cell called Ovoid cells. These neurons help in recognition memory by differentiating between new and familiar objects. They are named for their egg-like shape and are found in the hippocampus of humans, mice, and other animals. Ovoid cells activate when encountering something new, triggering memory storage. This discovery could help treat brain conditions like Alzheimer’s, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Epilepsy.

Notes:
Researchers found that bacterial cellulose can be used as a bandage to help plants heal and regenerate faster. It is a natural polymer produced by certain bacteria. It has unique properties that make it effective for plant wound care. Bacterial cellulose bandages offer a sustainable alternative to chemical treatments. This method supports healthier plant growth and eco-friendly farming. It enhances plant healing, leading to better crop yields and resilience. This breakthrough integrates biotechnology into agriculture, promoting sustainable farming and food security.

Notes:
NASA is preparing for the PUNCH mission, a first-of-its-kind solar mission to study the solar atmosphere. PUNCH (Polarimetry to Unify the Corona and Heliosphere) will be launched by SpaceX. It consists of four suitcase-sized satellites, each weighing 64 kg, placed in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The mission will use three Wide Field Imagers and one Narrow Field Imager to capture polarised and unpolarised images. It will provide 3D measurements of the corona and solar wind using light polarisation. The data will help improve space weather predictions and protect space missions. The mission is expected to last two years.

Notes:
A mysterious crying disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has caused over 60 deaths and infected more than 1,096 people in Western Congo. The disease was first identified in three children who ate bat and has spread rapidly. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, internal bleeding, diarrhea, body ache, intense thirst, joint pain, incessant crying, nose bleeding, and vomiting blood. The disease can kill within 48 hours, raising serious concerns. Tests ruled out Ebola, dengue, Marburg, and yellow fever, but the exact cause remains unknown. WHO is investigating whether it is an infection or a toxic agent.

Notes:
ISRO recently conducted a successful hot test on the semi-cryogenic engine (SE2000), advancing towards finalizing the cryogenic stage. The semi-cryogenic engine (SCE) uses liquid oxygen (LOX) as an oxidizer and refined kerosene (RP-1) as fuel. ISRO is developing the 2000 kN thrust SCE for future heavy-lift launch vehicles. Kerosene is more cost-effective and easier to handle than liquid hydrogen, simplifying storage and reducing mission costs. The engine will enhance ISRO’s launch vehicle payload capacity and is planned for use in the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV).

Notes:
Serbian government is accused of using a banned sonic weapon to disperse protesters in Belgrade. Sonic weapons, also called acoustic weapons, emit loud, painful sounds over long distances. They can use audible or inaudible sound waves to disrupt, disorient, or incapacitate people. Some versions amplify voices for crowd control. It was first developed for military use. The U.S. used them in Iraq in 2004. They work with transducers that convert energy into sound waves. Highly concentrated sound beams can cause discomfort, pain, and disorientation. Authorities control frequency, volume, and duration for targeted impact.