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6. Recently, which of the following space tech start-up made headlines by successfully test-firing its Green Propulsion System, VYOM 2U, onboard the PSLV-C60?
[A] Manastu Space
[B] Dhruva Space
[C] Kawa Space
[D] Agnikul
Correct Answer: A [Manastu Space]
Notes:
Manastu Space, a space technology start-up established by graduates of IIT Bombay, garnered significant attention by successfully conducting a test of its Green Propulsion System, VYOM 2U, aboard the PSLV-C60. This milestone took place on December 31, 2024, at 8:50 p.m. in Lucknow. The propulsion system offers a non-toxic and eco-friendly substitute for conventional chemical propulsion techniques. This advancement seeks to reduce the ecological footprint of space missions while enhancing safety for human health. 1. Established in 2017 by Tushar Jadhav and Ashtesh Kumar, both alumni of IIT Bombay, Manastu Space is dedicated to the advancement of sustainable propulsion technologies.
7. Nano-formulated melatonin has shown promise as a therapeutic approach for which disease recently?
[A] Diphtheria
[B] Dengue
[C] Parkinson’s Disease
[D] Hepatitis
Correct Answer: C [Parkinson’s Disease]
Notes:
Recent research has highlighted the potential of nano-formulated melatonin as a promising therapeutic strategy for Parkinson’s disease (PD). Parkinson’s disease is a common neurological condition marked by the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain, a process largely driven by the aggregation of synuclein protein. Existing treatments primarily aim to manage symptoms rather than provide a cure. Consequently, there is a pressing demand for novel therapeutic approaches that target the fundamental causes of Parkinson’s disease. Melatonin, a neurohormone synthesized by the pineal gland in reaction to low light conditions, plays a pivotal role in the regulation of the sleep-wake cycle and has been employed in the management of insomnia. Recent studies suggest that melatonin may also promote mitophagy, an essential mechanism for the elimination of impaired mitochondria and the reduction of oxidative stress within neuronal cells. The enhancement of mitophagy could potentially alleviate the impacts of Parkinson’s disease, positioning melatonin as a promising candidate for therapeutic advancement.
8. In which country recently ‘HMPV’ Virus seen on the news?
[A] US
[B] China
[C] Canada
[D] Australia
Correct Answer: B [China]
Notes:
China’s disease control agency has introduced a pilot monitoring system to track pneumonia cases of unknown origin. This step is taken due to the anticipated increase in respiratory infections during winter. The nation has already seen a rise in infections, especially in northern regions, with human metapneumovirus (HMPV) being a significant concern for younger people. Although there are viral claims on social media about a health emergency, no official announcement has been issued. Human metapneumovirus is a respiratory virus discovered in 2001. It is part of the Pneumoviridae family, which also includes viruses like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). HMPV leads to illnesses similar to the common cold, impacting both the upper and lower respiratory systems. The virus is most common in winter and early spring, posing greater risks for complications in children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.
9. Which of the following has recently introduced the Mars Chopper?
[A] NASA
[B] ISRO
[C] Space X
[D] CNSA
Correct Answer: A [NASA]
Notes:
NASA has launched the Mars Chopper, a new drone meant to take over from the Ingenuity helicopter. Ingenuity flew on Mars for almost three years, surpassing its original mission goals. The Mars Chopper shows progress in exploring the skies of the Red Planet. The new drone can travel up to three kilometres. This feature helps scientists study large areas quickly. The Mars Chopper can reach places that rovers can’t safely go, making it a crucial tool for exploring Mars.
10. Which space agency has recently announced the successful germination of cowpea seeds in space?
[A] ISRO
[B] NASA
[C] ASI
[D] JAXA
Correct Answer: A [ISRO]
Notes:
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved significant progress in space exploration with two recent experiments. On January 4, 2025, ISRO revealed that cowpea seeds successfully sprouted in space, representing a key advancement in agricultural research outside of Earth. It is the first time that the space agency achieved such a feat, using cowpea seeds. This success came soon after the PSLV-C60 SpaDeX mission, which took off on December 30, 2024, and carried 24 payloads, including the new PS4-Orbital Experiment Module (POEM-4).
