Sunday, March 16, 2025

Flareless Coronal Mass Ejection: Aditya-L1’s Discovery

 

Flareless Coronal Mass Ejection: Aditya-L1’s Discovery

Introduction

Recently, scientists at the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) observed a rare flareless coronal mass ejection (CME) using the Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC) onboard Aditya-L1, India's first dedicated solar mission. Unlike traditional CMEs that are preceded by intense solar flares, flareless CMEs occur without any noticeable electromagnetic burst, making them challenging to detect and study. This discovery holds significant importance in understanding solar activity and its impact on space weather and geomagnetic storms affecting Earth’s communication systems and satellites.


Aditya-L1: India's First Solar Mission

Overview

  • Launch Date: September 2, 2023

  • Developed by: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in collaboration with Indian academic institutions

  • Mission Type: Solar observation spacecraft positioned at Lagrange Point 1 (L1)

  • Distance from Earth: 1.5 million km (~1% of the Earth-Sun distance)

Primary Objectives

  • Study the Sun’s corona, chromosphere, and solar emissions

  • Monitor solar wind, magnetic storms, and space weather

  • Provide an early warning system for solar radiation and storms

Key Features

  • Continuous Solar Observation: L1 position enables uninterrupted monitoring of the Sun.

  • Advanced Payloads: Aditya-L1 carries seven indigenous payloads for spectroscopy, coronagraphy, and particle analysis.

  • Energy-Efficient Orbit: L1’s gravitational stability reduces fuel consumption for orbit maintenance.

  • Space Weather Predictions: Detects solar flares, CME, and magnetized plasma ejections before they impact Earth.


Understanding Flareless Coronal Mass Ejections

What is a Flareless CME?

A flareless coronal mass ejection is a massive ejection of plasma and magnetic field from the Sun’s corona without an accompanying solar flare. Unlike regular CMEs, it lacks a strong X-ray or UV radiation burst, making early detection difficult. This rare phenomenon challenges existing solar activity models and suggests new mechanisms of magnetic field instability.

How Do Flareless CMEs Form?

  • Magnetic Reconnection: Solar magnetic field lines rearrange and release energy, leading to plasma ejection.

  • Gradual Magnetic Build-up: Slow accumulation of magnetic stress eventually triggers an eruption.

  • Flux Rope Eruption: A pre-existing twisted magnetic structure in the corona destabilizes over time, causing an ejection.

  • No Preceding Flare: Unlike typical CMEs, no intense radiation burst is observed before the plasma expulsion.

  • Sunspot Influence: Usually originates from weak or decaying magnetic field regions, where energy buildup is insufficient to trigger a flare.

Key Characteristics of Flareless CMEs

  • Low Energy Signature: Lacks significant X-ray, UV, or radio wave emissions.

  • Slower Propagation Speeds: Travels at 400–1,000 km/s, slower than flare-associated CMEs.

  • Magnetic Field-Driven: Caused by gradual destabilization rather than impulsive energy release.

  • Space Weather Impact: Can still trigger geomagnetic storms, affecting GPS, satellites, and power grids.

  • Rare Occurrence: Less frequently observed than flare-induced CMEs, requiring continuous solar monitoring.


Impact of Flareless CMEs on Earth

  • Geomagnetic Storms: Can disrupt satellite communication, GPS signals, and power grids.

  • Increased Radiation Levels: Poses a threat to astronauts and space missions.

  • Potential Disruptions in Aviation: Affects high-frequency radio signals used in aviation and military operations.

  • Implications for Space Weather Forecasting: Helps in understanding long-term solar activity patterns.


Significance of Aditya-L1’s Observations

  • Provides continuous data on solar dynamics to improve space weather forecasting.

  • Enhances understanding of CME mechanisms and their effect on Earth’s magnetosphere.

  • Strengthens India’s role in global solar research and space technology advancements.


Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) for UPSC CSE

  1. What makes flareless CMEs different from typical coronal mass ejections?
    a) They occur with stronger X-ray emissions
    b) They do not have an associated solar flare
    c) They are faster than normal CMEs
    d) They only occur during solar maximum
    Answer: b) They do not have an associated solar flare

  2. Which instrument on Aditya-L1 detected the flareless CME?
    a) Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SUIT)
    b) Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC)
    c) Plasma Analyser Package for Aditya (PAPA)
    d) High Energy L1 Orbiting X-ray Spectrometer (HEL1OS)
    Answer: b) Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC)

  3. What is the main advantage of placing Aditya-L1 at the Lagrange Point 1 (L1)?
    a) It allows solar-powered energy generation
    b) It provides an uninterrupted view of the Sun
    c) It helps detect black holes
    d) It reduces Earth's atmospheric interference
    Answer: b) It provides an uninterrupted view of the Sun

  4. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of flareless CMEs?
    a) High X-ray emissions
    b) Slower ejection speeds
    c) Magnetically driven process
    d) Can impact Earth's space weather
    Answer: a) High X-ray emissions


UPSC Mains Question

"Discuss the significance of Aditya-L1 in understanding coronal mass ejections (CMEs). How do flareless CMEs challenge existing solar models, and what implications do they have for space weather forecasting?"


Conclusion

The observation of flareless CMEs by Aditya-L1 is a landmark achievement in solar physics. This discovery will refine solar storm prediction models, ensuring better preparedness against space weather hazards. As India's first solar observatory, Aditya-L1 continues to strengthen the country's space research capabilities and its contribution to global astrophysics.

Also Read:

India’s Growing Water Crisis: Causes, Impact & Solutions

India’s Growing Water Crisis: Causes, Impact & Solutions

India’s Growing Water Crisis: Causes, Impact & Solutions

Introduction

Water scarcity in India is worsening due to rising temperatures, climate change, and unsustainable water consumption. The year 2024 marked the hottest year since 1901, intensifying heatwaves and exacerbating India's growing water gap. If effective measures are not implemented, this crisis could severely impact agriculture, public health, and economic growth.

What is the Water Gap?

The water gap refers to the imbalance between water availability and consumption in a region. When demand surpasses supply, it leads to water stress, affecting communities, industries, and ecosystems. In India, rapid urbanization, climate change, and overexploitation of groundwater have significantly widened this gap.

Data Insights: Heat's Role in India's Water Crisis

  • 2024 was the hottest year since 1901, with January 2025 temperatures rising by 0.9°C compared to the previous year.

  • 733 deaths due to heatwaves in 2024, showcasing extreme stress on water resources.

  • With 1.5°C warming, India’s water gap is projected to rise by 11.1 cubic km/year, worsening to 17.2 cubic km/year at 3°C warming.

Causes of the Increasing Water Gap

1. Climate Change & Rising Temperatures

Global warming has disrupted rainfall patterns, leading to prolonged droughts and reduced freshwater availability. Example: In 2024, India recorded below-average monsoon rainfall, intensifying water shortages in several states.

2. Overexploitation of Groundwater

India is the world’s largest extractor of groundwater, accounting for 25% of global consumption. Unregulated borewells and excessive irrigation are depleting reserves at an unsustainable rate. Example: By 2030, 21 major Indian cities, including Delhi and Bengaluru, are expected to run out of groundwater.

3. Rapid Population Growth & Urbanization

India’s population boom has led to a surge in water demand for domestic, industrial, and agricultural purposes. Increased consumption has accelerated depletion rates, particularly in metropolitan areas.

4. Inefficient Water Management & Waste

Poor infrastructure, leakage, and wasteful practices lead to significant water loss. Example: Only 8% of wastewater in India is treated, leading to large-scale contamination and wastage of freshwater resources.

5. Water Pollution

Untreated industrial discharge, agricultural runoff, and household waste contaminate rivers and lakes, reducing the availability of potable water. Example: The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reports that 75% of India’s rivers are unfit for drinking due to heavy contamination.

Consequences of the Widening Water Gap

1. Agricultural Stress & Food Security Threats

Reduced irrigation water leads to low crop yields, threatening food security and increasing farmer distress. Example: In 2024, 60% of India’s districts faced drought-like conditions, affecting food production.

2. Health Hazards & Sanitation Crisis

Water scarcity leads to poor hygiene, waterborne diseases, and increased mortality rates. Example: Over 163 million Indians lack access to clean drinking water, resulting in severe public health crises.

3. Economic Losses

Industries dependent on water, such as textiles, beverages, and agriculture, face production cuts and financial losses during water shortages.

4. Ecological Damage & Biodiversity Loss

Overuse and mismanagement of water resources dry up rivers, lakes, and wetlands, leading to habitat loss and biodiversity decline. Example: The Ganga-Brahmaputra basin, home to 10% of global biodiversity, faces a 56.1 cubic km/year water deficit.

Solutions to Bridge the Water Gap

1. Sustainable Water Conservation & Management

  • Promote efficient irrigation techniques like drip irrigation and sprinkler systems to reduce water wastage.

  • Encourage rainwater harvesting in urban and rural areas. Example: Tamil Nadu’s rainwater harvesting mandate increased groundwater levels by 50% in urban zones.

2. Stricter Policy Regulations on Groundwater Extraction

  • Implement water rationing and regulate borewell drilling to prevent overuse.

  • Strengthen groundwater conservation initiatives like the Atal Bhujal Yojana.

3. Development of Water Infrastructure

  • Construct reservoirs, check dams, and recharge wells to improve storage capacity. Example: Jal Shakti Ministry’s initiatives led to a 15 billion cubic metre increase in groundwater recharge in 2024.

4. Public Awareness & Behavioral Change

  • Conduct mass campaigns to promote water conservation practices.

  • Encourage responsible water consumption through incentives and fines for wastage.

5. Climate Adaptation Strategies

  • Develop climate-resilient water policies to address the impact of heatwaves and erratic monsoons.

  • Implement afforestation programs to enhance groundwater retention.

Conclusion

India is facing an unprecedented water crisis that requires urgent action. Sustainable water management policies, infrastructure improvements, and climate adaptation strategies are essential to reduce the widening water gap. A collective effort from government bodies, industries, and citizens can help secure India's water future.


MCQs for UPSC CSE

  1. What does the term "Water Gap" refer to? a) The distance between two water bodies
    b) The difference between renewable water availability and consumption
    c) The gap in water levels of different rivers
    d) The variation in water demand across seasons
    Answer: b) The difference between renewable water availability and consumption

  2. Which Indian state made rainwater harvesting mandatory, leading to a 50% increase in groundwater levels? a) Rajasthan
    b) Tamil Nadu
    c) Maharashtra
    d) Gujarat
    Answer: b) Tamil Nadu

  3. What percentage of wastewater is treated in India? a) 8%
    b) 15%
    c) 30%
    d) 50%
    Answer: a) 8%


Mains Question for UPSC CSE

Q. Discuss the causes of the increasing water gap in India and suggest sustainable measures to mitigate water scarcity.

Also Read:

Green Revolution in India: Impact, Benefits & Challenges

Green Revolution in India: Impact, Benefits & Challenges

Green Revolution in India: Impact, Benefits & Challenges

Introduction The Green Revolution was a transformative agricultural movement launched in the 1960s, which significantly increased food production through High-Yielding Variety (HYV) seeds, mechanization, and the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. This revolution played a pivotal role in securing India’s food self-sufficiency, reducing dependency on imports, and addressing food insecurity.

What is the Green Revolution?

The term "Green Revolution" was coined by William S. Gaud in 1968 to describe the widespread adoption of scientific agricultural practices. In India, the movement was pioneered by M.S. Swaminathan, known as the "Father of the Green Revolution," and was strongly supported by Chidambaram Subramaniam, the then Food and Agriculture Minister.

Need for the Green Revolution in India

  • Food Insecurity: Post-independence, India faced severe food shortages and relied on imports under the PL-480 program from the U.S.

  • Bengal Famine of 1943: The famine highlighted India's vulnerability to crop failures.

  • Rising Population: A rapidly growing population demanded higher food production.

  • Economic Stability: Reducing dependency on food imports was crucial for national security and economic sovereignty.

Impact of the Green Revolution on Indian Agriculture

  1. Increase in Food Production:

    • Wheat output increased from 12 million tonnes (1965) to 110 million tonnes (2023).

    • Rice production grew from 35 million tonnes (1960) to 138 million tonnes (2023).

  2. Introduction of HYV Seeds:

    • States like Punjab, Haryana, and Western Uttar Pradesh became major contributors to food grain production.

  3. Expansion of Irrigation:

    • Large-scale irrigation projects, such as the Bhakra-Nangal Dam, enabled year-round farming.

  4. Mechanization of Farming:

    • Increased use of tractors, harvesters, and tube wells improved efficiency and productivity.

  5. Institutional Credit & MSP:

    • The establishment of NABARD and cooperative banks reduced farmer dependency on moneylenders.

    • The introduction of the Minimum Support Price (MSP) assured income security for farmers.

Unintended Consequences of the Green Revolution

  1. Groundwater Depletion:

    • Excessive irrigation led to 80% of Punjab’s water units being overexploited (CGWB, 2023).

  2. Soil Degradation:

    • Overuse of chemical fertilizers and pesticides reduced soil fertility and led to land degradation.

  3. Regional Disparities:

    • The Green Revolution benefited irrigated states like Punjab and Haryana, while rain-fed regions (e.g., eastern India) lagged behind.

  4. Farmer Debt & Suicides:

    • Small farmers faced high input costs, leading to financial distress and increased suicides.

  5. Biodiversity Loss:

    • Monoculture of wheat and rice reduced genetic diversity, making agriculture more vulnerable to pests and climate change.

The Way Forward: Towards a Sustainable Green Revolution 2.0

  1. Sustainable Farming Practices:

    • Promote zero-budget natural farming (ZBNF) and organic farming to reduce chemical dependency.

  2. Efficient Water Management:

    • Encourage micro-irrigation, rainwater harvesting, and solar-powered irrigation to conserve groundwater.

  3. Diversification of Crops:

    • Shift focus from wheat and rice to pulses, millets, and oilseeds for balanced agricultural growth.

  4. Agroforestry & Renewable Energy Integration:

    • Implement agrivoltaics (solar panels in farmlands) and inland aquaculture to enhance farmer incomes.

  5. Farmer Income Support & MSP Reforms:

    • Strengthen crop insurance (PMFBY) and expand direct income support schemes.

  6. Climate-Resilient Agriculture:

    • Develop drought-resistant and flood-resistant crop varieties using advanced biotechnology.

Conclusion

The Green Revolution played a crucial role in making India self-sufficient in food production. However, it also led to environmental degradation and socio-economic inequalities. A balanced approach integrating sustainability, technological advancements, and farmer-centric policies is necessary for the future of Indian agriculture. A Second Green Revolution focusing on sustainable farming, resource efficiency, and climate resilience is essential to address present and future challenges.


UPSC Prelims MCQs

  1. Who is known as the ‘Father of the Green Revolution’ in India? a) Norman Borlaug
    b) M.S. Swaminathan
    c) Chidambaram Subramaniam
    d) William S. Gaud
    Answer: b) M.S. Swaminathan

  2. Which of the following was NOT a key component of the Green Revolution? a) High-Yielding Variety (HYV) Seeds
    b) Organic Farming
    c) Increased Use of Fertilizers and Pesticides
    d) Mechanization of Agriculture
    Answer: b) Organic Farming

  3. The Green Revolution primarily benefited which regions of India? a) Eastern India
    b) Deccan Plateau
    c) Punjab, Haryana, and Western Uttar Pradesh
    d) Northeast India
    Answer: c) Punjab, Haryana, and Western Uttar Pradesh

  4. Which of the following was an unintended negative impact of the Green Revolution? a) Increased food production
    b) Rise in farmer incomes
    c) Groundwater depletion
    d) Higher agricultural exports
    Answer: c) Groundwater depletion

  5. What was the primary aim of the Minimum Support Price (MSP) introduced during the Green Revolution? a) To increase land ownership among farmers
    b) To ensure fair prices for agricultural produce
    c) To replace traditional farming methods
    d) To encourage urban migration
    Answer: b) To ensure fair prices for agricultural produce


UPSC Mains Question

Q. Explain various types of agricultural revolutions in India after independence. How have these revolutions contributed to poverty alleviation and food security in India? (UPSC-2017).

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UPSC Current Affairs: NECTAR, Astra, SpaDeX & More

Saturday, March 15, 2025

UPSC Current Affairs: NECTAR, Astra, SpaDeX & More

UPSC Current Affairs: NECTAR, Astra, SpaDeX & More

Table of Content:

North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR)

Astra Missile: India’s Beyond Visual Range Weapon

Hantavirus: Understanding the Rare but Deadly Virus

SpaDeX Mission: A Breakthrough in India’s Space Docking Capabilities

Indian Rupee Symbol: Controversy in Tamil Nadu

Mapping: Armenia-Azerbaijan Peace Treaty & Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict

UPSC MCQs:


 North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR)

Context:

The Union Minister recently laid the foundation stone for NECTAR’s permanent campus in Shillong, aiming to drive technology-led development in Northeast India.

About NECTAR:

What is NECTAR?

  • An autonomous body under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India.
  • Established in 2014 under the Ministry of Science & Technology.
  • Headquarters: Shillong, Meghalaya.
  • Aim:
    • Promote technology for socio-economic development in Northeast India.
    • Bridge the gap between research institutions and grassroots innovations.
    • Encourage sustainable agriculture, like saffron and bamboo cultivation.

Functions & Features:

  • Agricultural Technology: Expanding saffron cultivation in Northeast India, inspired by J&K’s lavender farming.
  • Drone Technology: Supports land mapping for programs like ‘Swamitva’ for efficient land records.
  • Eco-Friendly Industry Promotion: Enhancing bamboo and honey production for sustainable livelihoods.
  • Infrastructure & Connectivity: Using technology to improve rural access.
  • Skill Development: Establishing a Centre of Excellence in Shillong for tech training and innovation.

Astra Missile: India’s Beyond Visual Range Weapon

Context:

The Astra Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) was successfully test-fired from the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) AF MK1 prototype off the Odisha coast.

About Astra Missile:

  • Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and manufactured by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL).
  • Contract value: ₹2,971 crore.

Key Features:

  • Altitude: Can engage targets at 20 km.
  • Range: Over 100 km.
  • Guidance System: Inertial navigation, mid-course updates, and active radar homing.
  • Speed: Capable of Mach 4.5 (4.5 times the speed of sound).
  • Integration: Operational on Su-30MKI, under integration with LCA Tejas & MiG-29.

Significance:

  • Enhances India’s air defense capabilities.
  • Reduces dependency on imported air-to-air missiles.
  • Strengthens India’s position in Make in India defense initiatives.
  • Enables fighter jets to engage enemy aircraft at long distances.

Hantavirus: Understanding the Rare but Deadly Virus

Context:

The recent death of Betsy Hackman, wife of actor Gene Hackman, due to Hantavirus infection has raised awareness about this disease.

About Hantavirus:

  • Caused by viruses from the Bunyaviridae family.
  • Primary Carriers: Rodents like deer mice, rice rats, and cotton rats.
  • Transmission:
    • Human infection occurs via contact with infected rodent urine, droppings, or saliva.
    • Inhalation of aerosolized virus particles.
    • No confirmed human-to-human transmission, except in Andes virus cases in South America.

Symptoms:

  • Incubation: 1-8 weeks post-exposure.
  • Early Signs: Fever, muscle aches, nausea, dizziness.
  • Severe Phase: Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), kidney failure.
  • Treatment:
    • No specific antiviral treatment available.
    • Supportive care with oxygen therapy and ventilation.
    • Prevention: Rodent control, hygiene maintenance.

SpaDeX Mission: A Breakthrough in India’s Space Docking Capabilities

Context:

ISRO successfully undocked two SpaDeX satellites, positioning India among the few nations with advanced space docking technology.

About SpaDeX Mission:

  • What is SpaDeX?
    • technology demonstration mission for spacecraft docking and undocking in orbit.
  • Satellites Involved:
    • SDX-01 (Chaser): Actively maneuvers for docking.
    • SDX-02 (Target): Facilitates docking.
  • Launch Date: December 30, 2024 (PSLV-C60, Sriharikota).

Key Features:

  • India’s First Space Docking Mission: Successfully docked on January 16, 2025.
  • Orbital Operations: Conducted in 460 km circular orbit.
  • Autonomous Docking: Showcased self-sufficient satellite docking capabilities.
  • Power Transfer Capability: Demonstrated power-sharing between docked spacecraft.
  • Significance:
    • Enables India’s future space station construction.
    • Enhances Gaganyaan and deep-space exploration capabilities.
    • Advances robotics, orbital repairs, and in-space servicing.

Indian Rupee Symbol: Controversy in Tamil Nadu

Context:

The Tamil Nadu government replaced the official Rupee (₹) symbol with the Tamil letter “Ru” in the state Budget 2025-26, sparking political controversy.

About Indian Rupee Symbol:

  • Adopted: July 15, 2010.
  • Designed by: Udaya Kumar (IIT Bombay).
  • Symbolic Features:
    • Combination of Devanagari ‘Ra’ (र) and Roman ‘R’.
    • Two parallel horizontal stripes representing economic stability & Indian tricolor.
  • Significance:
    • Represents India’s economic strength in global finance.
    • Easily recognizable in international transactions.

Mapping: Armenia-Azerbaijan Peace Treaty & Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict

Context:

Armenia and Azerbaijan signed a historic peace treaty, ending a decades-long conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh.

About Nagorno-Karabakh:

  • Location: A landlocked region in the Caucasus between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea.
  • Status:
    • Internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan but primarily populated by ethnic Armenians.
    • Lost autonomy after Azerbaijan’s 2023 military operation.

About Armenia & Azerbaijan:

Armenia:

  • Borders: Turkey, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Iran.
  • Capital: Yerevan.
  • Geography:
    • Mountains: Lesser Caucasus range, Mount Aragats (4,090 m).
    • Rivers & Lakes: Aras River, Lake Sevan.

Azerbaijan:

  • Borders: Russia, Georgia, Armenia, Iran, Caspian Sea.
  • Capital: Baku.
  • Geography:
    • Mountains: Greater Caucasus, Mount Bazardüzü (4,466 m).
    • Rivers: Kura and Aras.
    • Significance: Caspian coastline crucial for oil exports.

UPSC MCQs:

1.     Which of the following technologies is NECTAR promoting in Northeast India? a) Artificial Intelligence b) Blockchain c) Saffron Cultivation d) Quantum Computing

2.     Astra missile is developed by: a) HAL b) DRDO c) ISRO d) BHEL

3.     Which virus is primarily transmitted through rodent urine and droppings? a) Hantavirus b) Nipah Virus c) Zika Virus d) Ebola

Mains Question:

Q: Critically examine the role of indigenous defense technology in strengthening India’s military capabilities. Discuss with reference to Astra missile and ISRO’s SpaDeX mission.