- By leveraging Starlink’s LEO satellite technology, Airtel Africa plans to offer broader internet coverage and greater network resilience across its markets.

Main Point :-   (i) Airtel Africa is also exploring rural expansion using cellular backhaul solutions powered by satellite infrastructure, enabling better access in areas lacking fiber connectivity.

      (ii) Airtel Africa currently operates in 14 countries: Chad, DRC, Gabon, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Niger, Nigeria, Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Seychelles, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia.

(iii) As of May 2025, Starlink’s satellite internet service is available in over 125 countries and territories globally, covering all seven continents.

      - These drones are designed to support operations in remote and border logistics, tactical surveillance, high-altitude missions, and defence supply chains, addressing India’s growing strategic and logistic needs.

Main Point :-   (i) HevenDrones will contribute the core technology, working prototypes, and production manuals to the JV, bringing advanced drone development expertise from Israel.

      (ii) Paras Defence will oversee the manufacturing, regulatory compliance, sales, and operational execution of the JV within India, ensuring seamless integration and scaling.

(iii) The JV’s board will include members from both Paras Defence and HevenDrones. A Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Chief Financial Officer (CFO), and Chief Operating Officer (COO) will be jointly appointed to manage the company’s operations.

Main Point :-   (i) The MIGM is a cutting-edge underwater naval mine that was developed by the Naval Science & Technological Laboratory (NSTL) in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, in collaboration with the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL) in Pune, Maharashtra, and the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL) in Chandigarh.

      (ii) The production of MIGM involves Visakhapatnam-based Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Hyderabad-based Apollo Microsystems Limited (AML) as the key partners.

Main Point :-   (i) The Stratospheric Airship Platform functions as a High-Altitude Pseudo-Satellite (HAPS), designed to operate at altitudes between 17 km and 22 km above the Earth for extended durations. It uses Helium for lift and is powered by solar energy, with onboard batteries enabling continuous operation during night-time.

      (ii) Unlike conventional satellites or aircraft, the platform can remain stationary over a designated area for days or even weeks, providing persistent surveillance and communication support. Its ability to carry imaging sensors, radar systems, or telecommunication payloads makes it highly effective for border monitoring, disaster response, and wide-area intelligence operations.

(iii) The platform bridges a critical gap between drones and satellites, combining the extended reach of space-based systems with the advantages of faster deployment, reduced operational costs, and enhanced flexibility.The platform bridges a critical gap between drones and satellites, combining the extended reach of space-based systems with the advantages of faster deployment, reduced operational costs, and enhanced flexibility.

Main Point :-   (i) Project Kuiper is a USD 10 billion global broadband initiative launched by Amazon with the goal of delivering high-speed, low-latency internet to underserved and remote regions around the world. It aims to bridge the digital divide by providing reliable internet access where traditional infrastructure is limited or unavailable.

      (ii) The full satellite constellation will comprise 3,236 satellites deployed across three orbital shells, positioned between 590 km and 630 km above Earth's surface. The system is designed to seamlessly integrate with Amazon Web Services (AWS), enhancing data processing capabilities for advanced applications such as satellite imagery analysis, cloud computing, and weather forecasting.

(iii) In October 2023, Amazon conducted initial test missions by launching two prototype satellites — KuiperSat-1 and KuiperSat-2 — to validate the system's core technologies. Following successful testing, both prototypes were intentionally deorbited and safely burned up in Earth’s atmosphere. The final satellite design includes upgraded subsystems based on insights gained from these early missions.

      - Fali Sam Nariman, born on 10 January 1929, was an eminent Indian jurist and senior advocate at the Supreme Court of India. He served as a nominated member of the Upper House of India's Parliament from 1999 to 2005.

Main Point :-   (i) Fali Sam Nariman was appointed as the Chairman of the Executive Committee of the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ), Geneva, Switzerland, from 1995 to 1997.

      (ii) He also served as a member of the ICC International Court of Arbitration, Paris, and later became its Vice-President from 1998 to 2005. Additionally, he was elected President of the International Council for Commercial Arbitration (ICCA) from 1994 to 2002.

(iii) Fali S. Nariman was honored with the Padma Bhushan in 1991 for distinguished service in jurisprudence and the Padma Vibhushan in 2007 for exceptional contributions to public affairs.

      - The International Charter operates as a collaborative initiative involving 17 member organizations. These members voluntarily supply Earth observation data and value-added products to assist in managing disasters across the globe. The Charter’s services extend to more than 120 countries, ensuring even nations with limited space capabilities can access vital satellite-based information.

Main Point :-   (i) Assuming the lead role places India at the strategic core of coordinating global disaster response efforts through space-based assets. ISRO’s responsibilities include managing activation requests, ensuring the rapid delivery of satellite products, leading strategic planning activities, supervising the delivery of satellite imagery from partner agencies, and promoting training, outreach, and capacity-building efforts.

      (ii) Since 2021, ISRO has actively contributed to the Charter by responding to 153 activation requests and delivering nearly 700 Earth observation products. These contributions include flood extent maps, landslide assessments, infrastructure damage evaluations, and aiding in post-disaster recovery planning efforts across various affected regions.

(iii) Not only has India contributed significantly to Charter operations, but it has also benefited from Charter activations during times of natural calamities within the country. This two-way engagement reinforces India’s role as both a benefactor and a beneficiary within the global disaster management community.

Main Point :-   (i) A Hypersonic Cruise Missile (HCM) is capable of sustained flight at speeds exceeding Mach 5 (>6,100 kilometers per hour), powered by air-breathing scramjet engines that utilize supersonic combustion for extended performance.

      (ii) A Scramjet (Supersonic Combustion Ramjet) is an air-breathing propulsion system without any moving parts, designed to sustain combustion at supersonic speeds.

(iii) It employs a unique flame stabilization technique that allows combustion even when air enters the engine at speeds greater than 1.5 kilometers per second (km/s).

Main Point :-   (i) This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in the advancement of space medicine. The collaboration will support India’s human space flight missions, particularly the Gaganyaan program, and enhance healthcare both in space and on Earth.

      (ii) The MoU aims to accelerate innovations in areas such as human physiological research, behavioral health studies, biomedical support systems, radiation biology, and medicine, among others.

(iii) The collaboration will also promote research opportunities in space medicine and lead to the development of new technologies that could benefit national priorities.

      - The missile is 4.5 meters long, weighs approximately 275 kilograms (including a 60 kg warhead), and has a diameter of 22.5 cm at the missile body, expanding to 54 cm at the booster stage. First tested in 2016, MR-SAM has undergone several successful trials, proving its effectiveness against high-speed aerial targets.

Main Point :-   (i) INS Surat is the fourth and final ship of the Project 158 Visakhapatnam-class stealth guided missile destroyers of the Indian Navy (IN), ranking among the world’s largest and most advanced destroyers.

      (ii) The ship is equipped with state-of-the-art weapon-sensor systems and network-centric warfare capabilities, with 75% of its components being indigenously manufactured, in line with India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative.

(iii) The ship measures 164 meters in length, has a displacement of approximately 7,400 tons, and can achieve speeds exceeding 30 knots (around 56 km/h).

      - The crew of Shenzhou-20 will also replace the Shenzhou-19 team, who are scheduled to return to Earth on April 29, 2025. This mission is an important step in advancing China’s space capabilities and furthering the scientific research aboard the Tiangong Space Station.

Main Point :-   (i) The crew members of the Shenzhou-20 mission include Commander Chen Dong, a veteran astronaut and former fighter pilot, who holds the record for the longest cumulative stay (200+ days) in space by a Chinese national. This marks his third spaceflight. Joining him is Chen Zhongrui, a 40-year-old former Air Force pilot who is embarking on his first space mission. The team is also joined by Wang Jie, a 35-year-old former space technology engineer, making his debut as an astronaut.

      (ii) The Tiangong Space Station, where the crew will be stationed, is a permanently crewed orbital facility constructed and operated by the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA). The station became fully operational in October 2022 and is designed with a T-shape structure consisting of three core modules: Tianhe (Harmony of Heavens), Wentian (Quest for Heavens), and Mengtian (Dreaming of Heavens).

(iii) With a total mass of around 100 metric tons, Tiangong orbits the Earth at an altitude ranging from 340 to 450 kilometers in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). It serves as a key milestone in China’s space exploration efforts, providing a platform for long-term research and development in space science and technology.

      - The satellite was developed by the Agency for Defence Development (ADD) and is being managed by the Defence Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA). These institutions are responsible for advancing South Korea’s defense technologies and military capabilities.

Main Point :-   (i) Under the 425 Project, South Korea has made steady progress in building its satellite reconnaissance system. Unit 1, an Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) satellite, was launched on December 1, 2023, providing high-resolution optical and infrared imagery.

      (ii) This was followed by the launch of Unit 2, a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite, on April 7, 2024, and Unit 3, also a SAR satellite, on December 21, 2024. Most recently, Unit 4—another SAR satellite—was successfully launched on April 22, 2025, significantly enhancing South Korea’s radar imaging capabilities.

(iii) The fifth and final satellite (SAR) under the 425 Project is scheduled for launch later in 2025. Once deployed, it will complete South Korea’s strategic satellite constellation, enabling real-time, round-the-clock monitoring of the Korean Peninsula and surrounding regions.

      - The satellite’s primary mission was to conduct scientific experiments in Solar Physics, Aeronomy, and X-ray Astronomy. These studies contributed valuable data for ISRO's early research efforts despite technical setbacks.

Main Point :-   (i) Aryabhata made India the 11th country to launch a satellite into orbit. Although it faced a power failure after five days, it successfully transmitted critical data and stayed in orbit for nearly 17 years, re-entering Earth’s atmosphere on 11th February 1992.

      (ii) The satellite was named after the renowned ancient Indian mathematician and astronomer Aryabhata. Then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi selected the name from a shortlist that included Aryabhata, Mitra, and Jawahar.

(iii) Aryabhata laid the groundwork for India’s satellite technology and inspired major missions like Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan. Since 1975, ISRO has developed 131 satellites, with 55 currently operational, showcasing India's strong presence in global space exploration.

Main Point :-   (i) The final hot test of the nozzle divergent was conducted for 665 seconds on 8 April 2025 at the ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC), Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu. This test followed three successful qualification tests, ensuring full readiness for operational deployment.

      (ii) This development brings multiple benefits—a 90% cost reduction in nozzle procurement, greater self-reliance in space technology, and increased strategic independence by reducing India’s reliance on foreign suppliers for critical rocket components.

      - The 651 kW Waterjet Propulsion System was developed at Larsen & Toubro’s AM Naik Heavy Engineering Complex located in Surat, Gujarat, as part of the company’s efforts to boost indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities.

Main Point :-   (i) This advanced propulsion system is engineered to support a range of critical naval operations, including high-speed interception, coastal patrolling, surveillance, and search-and-rescue missions. Its deployment is expected to significantly strengthen the Indian Navy’s coastal security framework.

      (ii) Unlike conventional propeller systems, the waterjet propulsion system operates by accelerating water through a pump to generate thrust, enabling rapid response and high-precision maneuverability. This makes it highly suitable for Fast Interceptor Crafts (FICs) engaged in agile, high-speed missions.

(iii) The system is equipped with integrated steering and braking mechanisms, allowing for a compact design that ensures better control at elevated speeds. It also delivers enhanced efficiency, reduced noise levels, and is capable of operating effectively in shallow-water environments.

      - It is engineered to operate reliably across extreme temperature ranges — from -60°C to +120°C — without the risk of explosion or fire, ensuring safety in high-demand environments.

Main Point :-   (i) The battery functions as Nickel-63 decays, emitting high-speed beta particles (electrons) that strike a semiconductor layer. This interaction generates electron-hole pairs, which are then converted into electric current.

      (ii) After 50 years, Nickel-63 decays into stable, non-radioactive copper, making the battery environmentally safe post-use.

      - The Mk-II Laser DEW is a powerful 30 kilowatt (KW) laser-based weapon designed to disable, degrade, or destroy small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), swarm drones, missiles, and other surveillance or attack sensors. The weapon works by directing a concentrated beam of light to heat and damage the target, achieving high-impact results with surgical precision.

Main Point :-   (i) The Mk-II Laser Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) was indigenously developed by DRDO’s CHESS, Hyderabad, in collaboration with labs like LRDE (Bengaluru), IRDE (Dehradun), DLRL (Hyderabad), academic institutions, and Indian industries, showcasing a unified national effort in advanced defence technology development.

      (ii) This laser-based DEW system offers ultra-fast engagement speed and precise targeting, making it highly effective against aerial threats like drones and missiles. Its compact design, operational simplicity, and low-cost nature make it a promising replacement for traditional kinetic or missile defence systems.

(iii) Equipped with radar and electro-optic systems, the DEW detects targets and emits a powerful laser beam that causes structural damage within seconds. It significantly reduces ammunition dependency and collateral damage, marking a transformative leap in India’s future battlefield strategy and defence capability.

Main Point :-   (i) The launch, designated Blue Origin NS-31, marked Blue Origin’s 11th human spaceflight and made history as the first all-female spaceflight since Valentina Tereshkova’s solo mission in 1963. Tereshkova, the Soviet cosmonaut, had orbited Earth alone for nearly three days, becoming the first woman in space.

      (ii) During this recently conducted mission, the six-member female crew flew for about 11 minutes, crossing the Kármán line — the internationally recognized boundary of space set at 100 km (62 miles) above Earth. The passengers experienced moments of weightlessness before safely descending back.

(iii) The New Shepard spacecraft operated fully autonomously, requiring no pilot input during the mission. Both the capsule and the rocket booster made soft landings using parachutes, with the booster successfully touching down in Texas.

      - These successful trials of LRGB ‘Gaurav’ mark a significant milestone in India's efforts towards self-reliance in advanced precision-guided munitions under the “Make in India” initiative.

Main Point :-   (i) During the trials, the indigenous Long-Range Glide Bomb (LRGB) ‘Gaurav’ was tested by mounting it on various positions of the Su-30 MKI aircraft with different types of warheads. The weapon was launched towards a land-based target located on an island and successfully struck it with precision from a standoff distance of around 100 kilometres (km).

      (ii) The quality assurance and certification process for ‘Gaurav’ was supported by two key organisations — the Centre for Military Airworthiness & Certification (CEMILAC), located in Bengaluru, Karnataka, and the Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance (DGAQA), a regulatory body functioning under the Department of Defence Production (DDP), Ministry of Defence (MoD) in New Delhi.

(iii) ‘Gaurav’ is a new-generation smart precision-guided weapon in the 1,000 kilogram (kg) class, featuring a wingspan of 3.4 meters. It has a strike range between 30 km and 150 km, and employs advanced guidance systems such as GPS (Global Positioning System), inertial navigation, and optionally laser or infrared sensors to accurately engage both stationary and mobile/hardened targets. The bomb can be equipped with fragmentation warheads for soft targets or penetration-blast warheads for fortified structures like bunkers.

      - In April 2025, Soyuz MS-27 successfully docked with the International Space Station (ISS), initiating an eight-month mission as part of Expeditions 72 and 73. The crew—NASA astronaut Jonny Kim and Roscosmos cosmonauts Sergey Ryzhikov and Alexey Zubritsky—is scheduled to return to Earth in December 2025.

Main Point :-   (i) The mission will focus on conducting a wide range of scientific investigations and technology demonstrations. These experiments are designed to support future deep-space exploration and deliver advancements in technology and medicine that benefit life on Earth.

      (ii) The International Space Station (ISS) is a state-of-the-art orbital laboratory located in low Earth orbit, developed through international collaboration. It is jointly operated by five major space agencies: NASA (USA), Roscosmos (Russia), JAXA (Japan), ESA (Europe), and CSA (Canada).

      - The engine also integrates an advanced flex nozzle, providing precision in thrust vector control. This feature enables accurate maneuvering in space, enhancing the rocket’s capability for deploying payloads to desired orbits.

Main Point :-   (i) Kalam-100 is a solid-fuel engine with a carbon composite structure and EPDM-based thermal protection system, combining high strength with lightweight efficiency. It includes a head-mounted safe arm (HMSA) for enhanced safety, co-developed with ISRO’s Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC).

      (ii) Previously, in March 2024, Skyroot had successfully tested the Kalam-250 engine (stage-2 of Vikram-1) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. These progressive tests reflect Skyroot's consistent momentum in private launch vehicle development.

(iii) The Vikram-1 launch vehicle is designed to carry up to 480 kg of payload to a 500 km Low Earth Orbit (LEO). It includes four stages—three solid-fuel motors (Kalam-1200, Kalam-250, Kalam-100) and a final liquid-fueled Raman engine. Its first launch is expected by the end of 2025.

      - The third-stage rocket motor developed by SDAL has a propellant mass of 2,400 kg and delivers a maximum thrust of 75,000 Newtons (around 7.65 tons). It supports payloads of up to 290 kg into a 500 km Sun-Synchronous Polar Orbit (SSPO) or 480 kg into a 500 km Low Earth Orbit (LEO). For high-precision space maneuvering, it is equipped with a high-performance igniter and a flex nozzle-based Thrust Vector Control (TVC) mechanism, enhancing control in a vacuum environment.

Main Point :-   (i) The Vikram-1 is India’s first privately built orbital rocket, currently under development by Skyroot Aerospace Private Limited, based in Hyderabad (Telangana).

      (ii) The project receives strategic support from ISRO (Bengaluru, Karnataka) and IN-SPACE (Ahmedabad, Gujarat), both functioning under the Department of Space, Government of India (GoI).

(iii) The Vikram-1 rocket features a four-stage configuration comprising the Kalam-1200 solid motor in the first stage, followed by the Kalam-250 solid motor in the second stage, a third-stage solid rocket motor developed by Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited (SDAL), and concludes with a liquid-fueled Raman engine in the fourth stage, which is responsible for precise final orbital adjustments.

Main Point :-   (i) Integration of AI-powered analytics, thermal vision, and high-resolution imaging systems is set to enhance India’s surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.

      (ii) Two drone camera models, typically priced at Rs 20 lakh and Rs 40 lakh per unit when imported, will now be 50-60% cheaper due to local supply—benefiting both the Indian Armed Forces and commercial sectors.

(iii) The Indian drone market is projected to grow by 17% by 2029, driven by rising demand in sectors like defence, agriculture, infrastructure, and surveillance.

Main Point :-   (i) This deal follows the successful delivery of the first batch of 100 K9 Vajra-T units ordered in 2017, under a procurement agreement valued at USD 310 million.

      (ii) Out of these, 10 units were manufactured in South Korea, while the remaining 90 units were assembled in India by L&T.

(iii) The new batch of K9 Vajra-T howitzers will be manufactured in partnership with Hanwha Aerospace at L&T’s Armoured Systems Complex (ASC) located in Hazira near Surat, Gujarat.

      - Dhruva Space plans to deploy 7.4m antennas with S, X, and Ka-band capabilities to support Lunar and Deep Space Missions in collaboration with global partners.

Main Point :-   (i) The agreement was signed in Tokyo (Japan) during the Third India-Japan Space Dialogue, organized by the Bopal, Ahmedabad (Gujarat)-based Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe), Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India (GoI), and the Cabinet Office of Japan.

      (ii) This collaboration enables Dhruva Space to provide end-to-end satellite solutions, while Infostellar offers its platform to satellite operators worldwide.

(iii) This partnership strengthens the existing India-Japan cooperation in space initiatives, including the Chandrayaan series, the Sentinel Asia initiative, and the forthcoming Lunar Polar Exploration (LUPEX) mission.

Main Point :-   (i) The Zircon hypersonic missile was initially developed as an anti-ship missile but is versatile enough to strike ground targets as well.

      (ii) Its maximum strike distance is estimated to be around 1,500 km (932 miles), enabling long-range strikes and significantly extending Russia's strike capabilities.

(iii) In March 2025, Russia officially launched "Perm," a 4th-generation nuclear-powered attack submarine and the first Russian submarine designed to carry and launch hypersonic Zircon missiles.

      - Fram2 marks SpaceX's 17th human spaceflight overall, its sixth mission for private clients, and carried the 681st people to travel above the Kármán line, with 626th entering Earth's orbit.

Main Point :-   (i) During their 5-day journey in orbit, the crew will conduct 22 research studies, primarily focusing on how spaceflight and zero gravity affect the human body.

      (ii) The crew will perform the 1st X-ray imaging in space, providing new insights into medical imaging in microgravity. The crew will study exercise regimens to mitigate muscle atrophy and bone density loss in microgravity.

(iii) The crew will conduct experiments to grow mushrooms, assessing fungal behavior and potential food sustainability in space.

      - Key features of the drone include dual-safety mechanisms to prevent accidental detonation, a live feedback relay system for real-time payload updates, and a pilot-activated trigger via a radio controller for controlled deployment.

Main Point :-   (i) Developed by Major Cephas Chetan of IA and the TBRL team led by Dr. Raghvendra, each FPV drone costs ₹1.4 lakh. The Indian Army inducted an initial batch of five drones and plans to procure 95 more, totaling 100 units.

      (ii) The initiative, launched in August 2024, involved extensive trials in Pathankot under TBRL supervision, including explosive testing, aerial vehicle assessments, and trigger system evaluations.

(iii) The successful trials confirmed the drone's accuracy, reliability, and effectiveness in neutralizing targets, validating it as a cost-effective force multiplier for the Indian Army.

Main Point :-   (i) This state-of-the-art vehicle aims to enhance the operational mobility of India's defence forces, aligning with India's vision of Atma Nirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India).

      (ii) The vehicle is equipped with a Bharat Stage III (BS III)-compliant engine and a 7-speed Allison Automatic Transmission, supporting a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 65 tons. Developed through BEML's Futuristic Product Innovation and Incubation Centre (FPIIC), it strengthens India's defense self-reliance.

(iii) Designed to operate effectively in extreme terrains and challenging climatic conditions, this vehicle serves as a vital asset for defence operations.

Main Point :-   (i) In 2023, GE Aerospace signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with HAL to explore joint production of the F414 engines in India.

      (ii) With the procurement deal worth Rs 5,375 crore (approx. USD 650 million), India aims to enhance its domestic defense manufacturing capabilities and reduce reliance on foreign defense imports.

      - The Nila mission, developed by HEX20 India, was supported by IN-SPACe (Ahmedabad) and ISRO (Bengaluru), which assisted with testing and approved a tracking station at Marian Engineering College, Kerala. This collaboration strengthens India's small satellite ecosystem.

Main Point :-   (i) Developed in just four months, Nila was launched with support from Berlin-based Exolaunch GmbH. The satellite, weighing under 5 kg, includes an in-orbit demonstration payload from German company Dcubed GmbH, showcasing global collaboration in satellite technology.

      (ii) To support mission operations, HEX20 India established a ground station at Marian College of Engineering, Thiruvananthapuram. This facility trains students and faculty in satellite operations while receiving data from Nila and future missions, promoting hands-on learning and research.

(iii) HEX20 has signed MoUs with several academic institutions in Kerala, including Government Engineering College Barton Hill and Mar Baselios College of Engineering. The company is also preparing to launch a 50 kg satellite aboard ISRO’s PSLV by 2026, marking a significant step in India's space advancements.

Main Point :-   (i) Researchers from Maharaja Sriram Chandra Bhanja Deo University (MSCB University) in Baripada, Odisha, have discovered a new species of wild ginger in the Similipal Biosphere Reserve (SBR) located in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha.

      (ii) The newly identified species has been named Zingiber jagannathii Sahu & Priyadarshini in honor of Lord Jagannath.

      - The missile showcased high agility, accuracy, and reliability with a sharp turn rate to destroy the target. All weapon system elements, including the indigenous RF seeker, Multi-Function Radar (MFR), and Weapon Control System (WCS), performed as expected. Flight data was validated using ITR Chandipur’s range instruments.

Main Point :-   (i) VL-SRSAM is a next-generation SAM designed by DRDO's facilities, including DRDL and RCI in Hyderabad and R&DE in Pune. It is manufactured by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), a CPSE under the Ministry of Defence.

      (ii) The missile is developed for the Indian Navy as a quick point defense against supersonic sea-skimming threats like aircraft and UAVs. It has a strike range of 50 km and can reach an elevation of 15 km.

(iii) VL-SRSAM weighs 170 kg, with a length of 3931 mm and a diameter of 178 mm. It features a smokeless propulsion system and advanced Electronic Counter-Counter Measures (ECCM) for enhanced combat effectiveness.

Main Point :-   (i) Astroscale Japan specializes in developing advanced in-orbit servicing and space debris mitigation solutions. The company offers scalable services, including satellite life extension, space situational awareness, end-of-life disposal, and active debris removal.

      (ii) Since March 2021, Astroscale has successfully demonstrated proximity and docking operations through its End-of-Life Services by Astroscale-demonstration (ELSA-d) and Active Debris Removal by Astroscale-Japan (ADRAS-J) missions. Its spacecraft have been selected for key space projects by global agencies and organizations.

(iii) Bellatrix Aerospace completed three space missions in 2024, securing space qualification for its Green Propulsion and Electric Propulsion-based Hall-Effect Thruster technologies, along with their subsystems.

Main Point :-   (i) The partnership aims to enhance undersea domain awareness by focusing on manufacturing, system interoperability, ocean testing, and establishing Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities for the Wave Glider ASV platform.

      (ii) It aligns with the US-India Autonomous Systems Industry Alliance (ASIA) initiative, fostering industry partnerships and strengthening production capabilities across the Indo-Pacific region.

(iii) In January 2025, India and the USA announced a first-of-its-kind partnership to co-produce Multi-Static Active (MSA) Sonobuoys. Ultra Maritime (UM) from the USA has partnered with Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) from India to manufacture these systems in India for the Indian Navy (IN).

Main Point :-   (i) This makes Paras Defence the first Indian company to develop such an advanced laser system, boosting local innovation in defence technology.

      (ii) The Total Addressable Market (TAM) for high-power laser defence systems is estimated at ₹25,000 crore.

Main Point :-   (i) Although supersolidity was theorized in the 1960s, its first experimental confirmation came in 2017 using traditional ultracold atom systems, specifically with dipolar quantum gases.

      (ii) The study involved leading institutions such as CNR National Institute of Optics (CNR-INO) in Italy, Princeton University in the United States, and several others, with funding from programs like the National Quantum Science and Technology Institute (NQSTI) in Italy and the European Union (EU).

Main Point :-   (i) Sunita Williams, a distinguished NASA astronaut and retired USA Navy Captain, was selected by NASA in 1998. She has completed three space missions—Expeditions 14/15, 32/33, and 71/72—accumulating a total of 608 days in space. During Expedition 14, she set a record for female spacewalks, totaling 29 hours and 17 minutes.

      (ii) Williams ranks second for the most days spent in space by a U.S. astronaut, with 608 days and 20 minutes, after Peggy Whitson’s 675 days.

(iii) Barry E. Wilmore, also a retired USA Navy Captain, joined NASA in 2000 and has completed three spaceflights, totaling 464 days in space. He served as Flight Engineer during Expedition 41 and Commander of Expedition 42, logging 167 days aboard the ISS, with 31 hours and 60 minutes of spacewalks.

Main Point :-   (i) The 'Arcot Ramachandran Seminar Hall' was also inaugurated at IIT Madras by Professor Kamakoti.

      (ii) Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Ministry of Railways (MoR), announced the development of the longest hyperloop test track at the IIT Madras, Thaiyur Campus in Chennai.

(iii) The hyperloop features the world's longest student-run hyperloop infrastructure, with Asia's longest 410-meter tube developed by IIT Madras researchers in collaboration with the Ministry of Railways (MoR).

Main Point :-   (i) In the latest test, the engine was fired for a maximum duration of 100 seconds for the first time under non-vacuum conditions using the Nozzle Protection System.

      (ii) ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan announced that the Government of India (GoI) has approved the ambitious 'Chandrayaan-5/LuPEX' mission during an event held in Chennai, TN. For this mission, GoI has collaborated with Japan.

(iii) The mission is a step towards achieving India's goal of landing on the Moon by 2040.

Main Point :-   (i) VIKRAM3201: India’s first fully ‘Make-in-India’ 32-bit microprocessor, specifically designed for the extreme environmental conditions of launch vehicles. It was fabricated at SCL’s 180-nanometer (nm) Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (CMOS) semiconductor facility.

      (ii) KALPANA3201: A 32-bit microprocessor based on the SPARC V8 (Scalable Processor Architecture, version 8) Reduced Instruction Set Computing (RISC) microprocessor, adhering to the IEEE 1754 Instruction Set Architecture.

      - The SpaDeX mission was launched on December 30, 2024, aboard the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)-C60 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh (AP).

Main Point :-   (i) The satellites, SDX-01 (Chaser) and SDX-02 (Target), were designed and developed by the Bengaluru-based U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC) with support from multiple ISRO centers.

      (ii) Each satellite weighed 220 kilograms (kg) and was launched into orbit to test space docking capabilities. The docking was successfully carried out on January 16, 2025, demonstrating India's growing expertise in orbital maneuvers.

(iii) The de-docking process involved a series of planned operations, including the extension of SDX-02, the release of Capture Lever 3, the final disengagement of the Capture Lever, and decapture commands, resulting in flawless separation.

      - As of September 2024, Starlink serves over 4 million subscribers worldwide.

Main Point :-   (i) The alliance will combine Jio's extensive mobile network with Starlink's LEO satellite technology to offer high-speed internet services across the country.

      (ii) Airtel will distribute Starlink user terminals through its vast retail network, enabling customers to access satellite-based internet services.

Main Point :-   (i) Nvidia Corporation (United States of America, USA) played a crucial role in the development of FoxBrain by providing its Taiwan-based supercomputer, "Taipei-1," and offering technical consulting throughout the model's training process.

      (ii) Taipei-1, the largest supercomputer in Taiwan, is owned and operated by Nvidia in Kaohsiung City, located in southern Taiwan.

(iii) Foxconn assembles iPhones for Apple and also manufactures Nvidia's artificial intelligence servers.

      - Ariane 6, in its Ariane 62 configuration, with a core stage, two P120C boosters, and a Vulcain 2.1 engine, successfully launched the 3,600 kg CSO-3 satellite into a Sun-Synchronous Orbit (550) at an altitude of 800 km (500 miles).

Main Point :-   (i) Ariane 6 is available in two configurations, Ariane 62 and 64, offering flexibility for various mission needs. It is designed to be cost-efficient, providing a competitive alternative to SpaceX’s Falcon 9 in the global market.

      (ii) CSO, which stands for "Composante Spatiale Optique," is France’s military satellite program designed to provide high-resolution optical imagery for defense and intelligence purposes.

(iii) The CSO constellation includes three satellites: CSO-1 (2018), CSO-2 (2020), and CSO-3. The program is supported by the French Defence Procurement and Technology Agency (DGA) and CNES, France's space agency.

Main Point :-   (i) The latest upgrade will enable the F-35 to deploy both Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles (JASSM) and LRASM, significantly boosting its offensive range and target flexibility.

      (ii) During the initial test flights, the F-35B was equipped with two LRASMs mounted externally on the innermost wing hardpoints, along with two inert AIM-9X (Air Intercept Missiles) on the wingtips, simulating real-world weapon configurations.

(iii) These evaluations, termed as ‘captive carriage’ tests, aimed to assess the structural and aerodynamic impact of the LRASM on the F-35B airframe under various flight conditions, ensuring performance integrity and flight safety.

      - The OBOGS-ILSS replaces traditional liquid oxygen systems by generating oxygen in real time using molecular sieve technology. It integrates critical components like the Anti-Gravity Valve (Anti-G Valve) and Emergency Oxygen System (EOS) to enhance pilot safety during combat.

Main Point :-   (i) The system’s development involved multiple R&D partners, including DEBEL, Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), and the Indian Air Force (IAF), with certification and quality assurance from CEMILAC, Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance (DGAQA), and the National Flight Test Center (NFTC).

      (ii) The OBOGS-ILSS eliminates reliance on imported liquid oxygen, enhances Tejas' combat readiness by providing a lighter and safer life-support system, and increases operational flexibility for the Indian Air Force.

(iii) The technology can be adapted for other fighter aircraft, including the MiG-29K, expanding its strategic impact beyond Tejas and strengthening India's defense capabilities.

Main Point :-   (i) As part of the IM-2 mission, the Athena lander will be sent to the Moon to deploy Nokia's Lunar Surface Communication System (LSCS), which will use Earth-based cellular technology to establish connectivity on the Moon.

      (ii) The network will operate on 4G Long-Term Evolution (LTE) technology, ensuring fast and reliable connectivity for future lunar missions.

(iii) This mobile network will allow astronauts, lunar vehicles, and mission control to communicate with each other. It will help with real-time data transmission, video calls, and remote operations on the Moon.

      - The flight was designated as NS-30 by Blue Origin, marking the New Shepard’s 30th overall flight.

Main Point :-   (i) The six-member crew included Lane Bess, Jesús Calleja, Elaine Chia Hyde, Dr. Richard Scott, Tushar Mehta, and an undisclosed sixth crew member.

      (ii) The NS-30 mission was Lane Bess' second flight with Blue Origin.

(iii) This mission was also called "Perfect 10" as it marked the 10th crewed mission of the New Shepard vehicle.

      - In February 2025, China successfully launched two high-resolution satellites, 'Siwei Gaojing-1 03' and 'Siwei Gaojing-1 04', into a 500 km sun-synchronous orbit using the Long March-2C rocket from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. These satellites will support natural resource management, urban planning, and commercial operations.

Main Point :-   (i) The satellites are part of the China Siwei New Generation Commercial Remote Sensing Satellite System (SuperView constellation), operated by China Siwei under CASC. The Shanghai Academy of Space Technology (SAST) developed these satellites, adding to the existing 9-satellite constellation deployed in near-polar orbits.

      (ii) Developed by CALT (China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology), the Long March-2C is a two-stage launch vehicle with storable propellants.

(iii) It measures 43 meters in length, 3.35 meters in width, and has a lift-off mass of 242.5 metric tons (MT). This mission marks the 561st flight of the Long March series.

      - The flight was designated as NS-30 by Blue Origin, marking the New Shepard’s 30th overall flight.

Main Point :-   (i) The six-member crew included Lane Bess, Jesús Calleja, Elaine Chia Hyde, Dr. Richard Scott, Tushar Mehta, and an undisclosed sixth crew member.

      (ii) The NS-30 mission was Lane Bess' second flight with Blue Origin.

(iii) This mission was also called "Perfect 10" as it marked the 10th crewed mission of the New Shepard vehicle.

      - In February 2025, China successfully launched two high-resolution satellites, 'Siwei Gaojing-1 03' and 'Siwei Gaojing-1 04', into a 500 km sun-synchronous orbit using the Long March-2C rocket from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. These satellites will support natural resource management, urban planning, and commercial operations.

Main Point :-   (i) The satellites are part of the China Siwei New Generation Commercial Remote Sensing Satellite System (SuperView constellation), operated by China Siwei under CASC. The Shanghai Academy of Space Technology (SAST) developed these satellites, adding to the existing 9-satellite constellation deployed in near-polar orbits.

      (ii) Developed by CALT (China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology), the Long March-2C is a two-stage launch vehicle with storable propellants.

(iii) It measures 43 meters in length, 3.35 meters in width, and has a lift-off mass of 242.5 metric tons (MT). This mission marks the 561st flight of the Long March series.

Main Point :-   (i) The NASM-SR demonstrated its Man-in-Loop feature, allowing human intervention during the missile's operation.The NASM-SR demonstrated its Man-in-Loop feature, allowing human intervention during the missile's operation.

      (ii) The missile was launched in Bearing-only Lock-on after Launch (LOAL) mode, initially guided by a broad target direction and then precisely hitting a smaller target.

(iii) The missile successfully targeted and hit a small ship at its maximum range of 50 kilometers (km) while operating in sea-skimming mode.

Main Point :-   (i) The Athena lander is accompanied by a 3-foot (1 meter) drone, Grace, named after the late computer programming pioneer Grace Hopper.

      (ii) The drone will attempt various test hops before venturing into a crater estimated to be 65 feet deep.

      - It is also the 5th exoplanet detected using the combined efforts of PRL Advanced Radial Velocity Abu Sky Search (PARAS-1) and PARAS-2 spectrographs. It is only the 5th sub-Saturn exoplanet discovered in a binary system.

Main Point :-   (i) TOI-6038A b has a high density of 1.62 grams per cubic centimeter (g/cm³), suggesting its formation through High-Eccentricity Tidal Migration (HEM) or early disk-driven migration. Its internal structure analysis indicates that 75% of its mass consists of a massive rocky core, while the remaining 25% is a Hydrogen-Helium (H/He) envelope.

      (ii) Its host star, TOI-6038A, is part of a binary system with a companion K-type star, TOI-6038B, which is located 3217 Astronomical Units (AU) away.

(iii) PARAS-2 is Asia's highest-resolution stabilized radial velocity (RV) spectrograph.

Main Point :-   (i) Before wet testing, Matsya-6000 completed dry tests at a 500-meter operational range to evaluate integration and performance, ensuring its readiness for advanced trials.

      (ii) From January 27 to February 12, 2025, Matsya-6000 underwent wet testing at Kattupalli Port, conducting eight dives: five unmanned and three manned.

(iii) The tests assessed key parameters, including power control, buoyancy, stability, maneuverability, safety, and the functionality of its scientific instruments.

      - The MDN100 Steel offers excellent forgeability and is ideal for manufacturing highly stressed aircraft parts, providing significant weight-saving benefits.

Main Point :-   (i) This initiative aligns with the "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) campaign, contributing to India's combat aircraft programs.

      (ii) MIDHANI has been a crucial supplier of critical materials for DRDO and Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) in various aeronautical projects. MIDHANI also showcased SuperNi 41 plates at Aero India 2025, a nickel-chromium-based superalloy designed to withstand extreme temperatures in aero engines.

(iii) ADA’s ongoing combat aircraft programs include Light Combat Aircraft Mark 2 (LCA Mk2), Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), and Twin-Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF) for the Indian Navy.

      - The barge has been indigenously designed and built in collaboration with an Indian ship design firm and the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS).

Main Point :-   (i) Model testing was conducted at the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL), Visakhapatnam (AP), to ensure seaworthiness.

      (ii) The MCA Barges play a crucial role in the IN's operational capabilities, assisting in the transportation, embarkation, and disembarkation of ammunition and materials to naval platforms, both at jetties and outer harbors.

(iii) These MCA Barges align with the Government of India’s (GoI) ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives, reinforcing India's self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

      - This initiative aligns with India's "Make in India" and "Atmanirbhar Bharat" programs, reinforcing self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

Main Point :-   (i) In July 2021, Union Minister Rajnath Singh, Ministry of Defence (MoD), Government of India (GOI), and Russian Defence Minister General Sergey Shoigu signed a contract worth ₹5,124 crore.

      (ii) The agreement involves a Joint Venture (JV) between Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) and Rosoboronexport (ROE) for the production of over 6.1 lakh 7.62×39 millimeter (mm) AK-203 rifles in India, with technology transfer from Russia.

(iii) On January 25, 2022, the first batch of 70,000 AK-203 rifles was delivered to the Indian Army (IA). An additional batch of 35,000 AK-203 rifles was delivered between May and July 2024.

      - Direct-to-cell is a satellite communication system that allows smartphones to connect directly to satellites in orbit, eliminating the need for traditional cell towers in remote or underserved areas.

Main Point :-   (i) The system uses an eNodeB (evolved Node B) modem, which functions like a cell tower in space, enabling communication with LTE phones and IoT devices.

      (ii) Starlink, developed by Elon Musk's SpaceX, is the world's first and largest satellite constellation in Low-Earth Orbit (LEO), providing affordable internet access to remote and underserved locations.

(iii) The V2 Starlink satellites weigh approximately 1,760 lbs (800 kg) at launch, nearly three times heavier than the previous generation satellites, which weighed 573 lbs (260 kg).

      - The 64-bit IRIS chip was conceptualized by IISU, designed by IIT Madras, and manufactured at Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL) in Chandigarh. It was packaged by Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) in Perjenahalli (Karnataka), with the motherboard PCB manufactured by PCB Power India Limited in Gandhinagar (Gujarat). The motherboard was assembled and mounted by Syrma SGS Technology Limited in Chennai (Tamil Nadu), while the software was developed and successfully booted at IIT Madras.

Main Point :-   (i) Designed for ISRO’s command and control systems, satellite navigation, and other critical space functions. It is also suitable for computing systems needed for national security and strategic purposes.

      (ii) Its versatility makes it useful in Internet of Things (IoT) devices and other advanced technological applications.

(iii) Supported by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) under the 'Digital India RISC-V Microprocessor (DIR-V)' program, this project promotes indigenous microprocessor development. It is led by Dr. Veezhinathan Kamakoti, a professor at IIT Madras.

      - Chang'e-8, a Chinese lunar mission set for 2028, will focus on exploring the Moon's south pole, with a goal to study the region's resources and unique environment.

Main Point :-   (i) Pakistan's Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) will contribute a 35 kg (440 lb) rover to the mission, further strengthening the partnership between Pakistan and China.

      (ii) The mission aims to analyze lunar soil composition, radiation levels, plasma properties, and test new technologies for sustaining human presence on the Moon.

(iii) The lander will carry 10 scientific payloads, including cameras, a seismometer, and a soft X-ray telescope. Preliminary landing sites include Leibnitz Beta, Amundsen crater, Cabeus crater, and the Shackleton-de Gerlache Ridge near the lunar south pole.

      - During the test trial, the ignition of the engine’s Thrust Chamber was conducted using a multi-element igniter in vacuum conditions. The test simulated tank pressure conditions expected during the in-flight restart of the cryogenic engine.

Main Point :-   (i) ISRO is exploring a bootstrap mode for initiating turbo pumps instead of the conventional stored gas system. This approach aims to re-ignite both the thrust chamber and gas generator under tank head conditions, enhancing engine efficiency.

      (ii) The CE20 cryogenic engine is already qualified for thrust levels ranging between 19 to 20 tonnes in flight with a single start. It will also play a critical role in India’s Gaganyaan mission, which aims to send humans to space.

(iii) Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3), formerly known as Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV Mk-III), is a three-stage launch vehicle. It consists of two solid propellant S200 strap-ons, an L110 liquid core stage, and a CE20 cryogenic upper stage. The vehicle stands 43.5 meters tall, has a 4.0-meter diameter, and a liftoff mass of 640 tonnes, with the capability to launch satellites up to 4,000 kg into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO).