Here are today’s most important updates from the realm of Science and Space.
SpaceFields, a startup incubated at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), has successfully tested India’s first aerospike rocket engine. These unique Aerospike engines are capable of adjusting to different altitudes, while maintaining efficiency despite changing atmospheric pressure. This advanced rocket engine is capable of reducing extra stages and fuel consumption during space missions. This successful test is a crucial step for India’s space technology to become a leader in next-generation rocket development. The aerospike engine,168 mm in size, used a unique composite propellant at a maximum pressure of 11 bar, producing a peak thrust of 2000 Newtons. The test was conducted at IISc Propulsion Test Facility in Challakere, Chitradurga district.
The ocean absorbs at least one-quarter of the carbon emitted by anthropogenic activities annually. A recent study published in Nature Geoscience revealed rainfall contributes at least 6% of the total carbon dioxide uptake. Rain generates turbulence facilitating more surface area for uptake. It also dilutes the seawater to enable greater absorption of CO2. Additionally, CO2 absorbed to raindrops during the fall through the atmosphere gets directly inject into the ocean. As per the report, the rain increases the oceanic carbon sink by 140 - 190 million tons of carbon every year. As rainfall pattern is changing rapidly due to climate change, ocean carbon sink might also get affected by it.
Scientists have detected two closely located supermassive black holes in the galaxy MCG-03-34-64, according to Universe Today. This galaxy is located 800 million light-years away. The astronomers detected three bright optical 'hot spots' in this galaxy using the Hubble Space Telescope. This discovery was made possible by Chandra X-ray Observatory and radio data
The finding offers a rare snapshot of galaxy collisions in the modern universe. As a result of this collision, the two black holes are predicted to meet their demise in one hundred million years, which will send gravitational waves rippling through space. It will further trigger vigorous galactic activity. This study will clarify galaxy evolution involving supermassive black holes.
According to RMSI, a geospatial and technology company revealed the link between rising landslide risk and climate change in India. At least 30% of India's total landmass is covered by mountain ranges. During 1950 - 2021, the road length has increased from 3,99,942 sq. km to 62,95,717 sq. km with an expansion of road networks in hilly regions, increasing the risks of landslide. Human activities like deforestation have exacerbated the issue. As per the report, the most vulnerable states in India are Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Kerala, Meghalaya, Maharashtra, Manipur, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh. The most recent landslide in Kerala's Wayanad claimed over 200 lives.
This study highlighted the urgent need for sustainable strategies to infrastructure expansion in vulnerable areas.
